"Tushikilie Huyo Mzee Mara Hii": Uhuru Urges Mt Kenya to Support Raila for the Presidency

President Kenyatta has declared his support for ODM leader Raila Odinga’s presidential bid. Addressing Mt. Kenya leaders and residents at Sagana State Lodge on Wednesday, Kenyatta said Odinga has the best interests for the country and is capable of steering the economy due to his experience and commitment.

He urged Mt. Kenya residents to rally behind Odinga, who is giving his fifth stab at the presidency under the ‘Azimio La Umoja’ movement.

Uhuru defended his decision not to back Deputy President William Ruto, saying he has lost track of leadership and should not be elected in the forthcoming elections. 

He noted that Kenyans should consider supporting Ruto for the presidency in the future if he reforms and changes his ways.

"I'm asking you to support Raila Odinga as he means well for the country," Uhuru said.

He added: "I appeal you to support Raila. Help him to the top. Even my friend Ruto, he can become president someday akishika line. Tushikilie huyo Mzee (Raila) mara hii, huyo kijana (Ruto) tutafikiria baadaye.”

Kenyatta also defended his development record, saying the economy has grown nearly three times since he took over from his predecessor Mwai Kibaki in 2013.

"Kibaki left me an economy worth Sh5 trillion, today, the person I will hand government to, I will leave him an economy of Sh13 trillion," Uhuru stated.