NASA presidential candidate Raila Odinga has no problem with independent candidates in Nyanza as he needs votes despite people’s political affiliations.

The remarks in Homa Bay on Monday contradicted what he has said several times in his push for the six-piece voting pattern.

Even in that county yesterday, he did not touch on the voting style, saying focus should be on the presidency, not trivial seats.

The Opposition and ODM leader said he is ready to work with all those who support his presidential bid.

He added: “I want our people to focus on the bigger picture which is getting the Presidency. The small in-fights among us will not help us, instead they’ll spoil what we want.”

Raila said the political tension which has been witnessed among different candidates should stop forthwith.

There has been serious political rivalry between independent and ODM candidates in the region.

In Homa Bay county, incumbent Governor Cyprian Awiti (ODM) is taking on Kasipul MP Oyugi Magwanga (Independent)

In Migori, Governor Okoth Obado (ODM) is battling it out with Ochillo Ayacko (Independent).

In Kisumu, the race is between Governo Jack Ranguma (Independent) and Senator Anyang’ Nyong’o (ODM) while in Siaya Governor Cornel Rasanga (ODM) will face Rarieda MP Nicholas Gumbo (Independent).

But during the event, Raila said both independent and ODM candidates are his people.

“Awiti is my supporter and so is Magwanga. When we get power all Kenyans will benefit,” he said and appealed for large turnouts on voting day.

Raila was with National Super Alliance co-principals Moses Wetang’ula (Ford Kenya leader and Bungoma Senator) and Musalia Mudavadi (Amani National Congress).

Wetang’ula criticised NCIC chairman Francis Kaparo over what he termed liaising with the Communication Authority of Kenya to paralyse social media on August 8.

He said the aim is interfering with Kenyans’ freedom of expression.

“Ole Kaparo should not interfere with Kenyans’ freedom. Social media is significant in enabling Kenyans to share information about what goes on.”

Mudavadi told their supporters to shun the culture of depending on hand outs in order to vote.

“Handouts are likely to deny us good leaders. Let us sacrifice and vote objectively to enable us win the presidency,” he said.

The politician accused the Jubilee government of giving out bags of rice to influence voters.

“Let jubilee not lie that they are helping you. What they give is part of your taxes which should not be used to compromise your voting decisions,” he said.

Others present were nominated MP Oburu Oginga, Homa Bay woman represenative Gladys Wanga and Senator Moses Kajwang.

Source: The Star