{UAH} Cord has a right to hold Saba Saba Rally - DP Ruto

Tuesday, July 1, 2014 - 00:00 -- BY STAR REPORTER

DP William Ruto

Deputy President William Ruto has said the Cord coalition has a right to hold the Saba Saba rally. In an interview with Citizen Tv, Mr Ruto said that the constitution guarantees the right of assembly. He urged Inspector General David Kimaiyo to ensure adequate security for opposition supporters who will attend the rally. He however cautioned opposition leaders against inciting the public.

Ruto also said the government is not opposed to dialogue but it is against threats and ultimatums set by the opposition leaders. He challenged Cord leader Raila Odinga to call President Kenyatta just like he did before he left for a recent three month visit to the US. He also dismissed claims by the opposition that he's the one blocking dialogue with the government. He said there was no contradiction between his dismissal of  Cord's initial calls for national dialogue and the president's invitation for dialogue during his Madaraka Day speech. Ruto said the Jubilee government is united and will deliver on its mandate.

Ruto also backed claims made by the Cabinet Secretary for Internal security Joseph Ole Lenku that opposition leaders are working with Mungiki and MRC. He said that investigations are still ongoing and that leaders will be held to account if they are found to be aiding illegal groups to perpetrate crime.

Ruto also said that no one is being held at the Kasarani stadium, contrary to claims by civil society groups who allege that the government is still holding illegal immigrants and refugees arrested during the Usalama Watch operation. He said those arrested were deported or taken to the refugee camps.

On the successful Eurobond issue which raised $2 billion the Deputy President said that the move to float the bond will see interest rates come down and open up a new source of credit for the private sector. He said part of the money will be invested in improving road infrastructure across the country.