Wetang’ula in fix as Luyhas front Mudavadi

The push for Western to front a single presidential candidate threatens Bungoma Senator Moses Wetang’ula’s ambitions.

Wetang’ula on Saturday skipped a meeting to discuss Luhya unity in Khwisero, fueling speculation he could be walking a tightrope as leaders move closer to striking a deal.

The meeting was hosted by Cotu secretary general Francis Atwoli. Wetang’ula has urged Cord co-principals Raila Odinga and Kalonzo Musyoka to let him be the party’s presidential flagbearer because “I am best placed to win the election.” But if the events at Khwisero are anything to go by, then the Ford Kenya leader faces an uphill task to win the Cord presidential ticket.

Western leaders are fronting ANC leader Musalia Mudavadi as the region’s sole presidential candidate. Kakamega Governor Wycliffe Oparanya yesterday said, “I respect my brother Mudavadi because he is a gentleman. He is mature politically and sober. He is the only man I can support. Others can wait.” He said Wetang’ula is an unripe candidate for the presidency. Atwoli told presidential hopefuls they should quickly agree on who will be the region’s candidate or else “I will appoint one myself”.