Come face me in UDA primaries, Waiguru tells political rivals

Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru has challenged her political rivals to prepare for the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) nominations instead of engaging in politics of intimidation.

She reminded her rivals that UDA is a national party and those who feel threatened by her entry should calm down because she will not back off.

Ms Waiguru said it does not matter when one joins a political party but the value he or she is adding.

The governor said her defection to UDA has angered some politicians in Kirinyaga who are now engaging in all manner of intimidation to scare her.

"I will not succumb to such intimidation and we are soldiering on in UDA. Let them wait for the party nominations and the people will decide," she said on Thursday while addressing more than 3,000 supporters in Kagio.

She said that UDA belongs to all Kenyans and, therefore, those who want to join the party should be embraced so as to strengthen it.

Strengthen party

“We want UDA to grow and, therefore, we should welcome all those waiting at the back of the tent. I am asking all including those who want the governor’s seat to join so that we can strengthen the party; there will be nominations and people will decide,” she added.

Governor Waiguru joined UDA last month after what she termed as listening to the ground and ascertaining that Kirinyaga people were in support of Deputy President William Ruto and his proposed bottom up economic model. She has likened the model with the Wezesha Kirinyaga economic empowerment programme that she has been implementing in the county.

She also said the DP is welcome to tour all parts of the county during his visit on Sunday.

Dr Ruto is expected to attend a Sunday worship service at Kianyaga Anglican Church before embarking on campaigns in major towns in the county.