africanpress.in

Mr. Musyoka said presidential appointments under the established legal framework cannot be contested and wondered why leaders keep on confusing Kenyans on the issue.

He at the same time urged the media to report objectively and responsibly and avoid magnifying simple issues into complex matters that may jeopardise national harmony.

"You as the media are stakeholders of this nation, avoid reportage that could destroy this country. Let us all cultivate peace and harmony", he said.

The Vice President made the remarks Sunday at Kirenga Primary School grounds in Lari district during the Installation of Bishop Geoffrey Gichure and his Deputy, Rev. John Kingori of the African Inland Church, Central area Council.

The ceremony was also attended by the Retired President Daniel arap Moi and 12 Bishop from across the country among other clergy and guests.

The Vice President said it was important for parliament to establish the House Business Committee to enable it start transacting crucial business including the reforms under Agenda Item N0. 4 of the National Accord.

He dismissed claims by some people alleging that he is not part of the Grand Coalition Government noting that his party ODM-K was the first to form a coalition with PNU.

Retired President Moi attributed the current state of politics in the country to a coalition arrangement that is strange to Kenyans who have not experienced that kind of leadership before.

Moi called on leaders to be at the forefront in preaching peace and harmonious coexistence amongst all Kenyans.

He said he will continue to hold rallies and consultations in all parts of the Rift Valley with a view to promoting peace and reconciliation amongst wananchi.

The VP's sentimenst come as a show down looms in parliament over who holds the position of leader of government business and chairs the house business committee as both the PNU and ODM parties stand their grounds on their choices.

While PNU members' claim that the president has constitutional powers to appoint his choice to the position, ODM has threatened to mobilize its MPs to stamp its majority advantage in parliament by pushing for the premier to take the position of the leader of government business.

Last week parliament was adjourned to Tuesday next week when the speaker would make a ruling on the matter.

The speaker Kenneth Marende had earlier informed parliament that he had received a letter from President Mwai Kibaki indicating that the VP Kalonzo Musyoka should take the position while a different letter from the Prime Minister's office said the PM should be the leader of government business by virtue of his party ODM having a majority in parliament.

On Saturday President Kibaki said he stood by his appointment of Musyoka saying the constitution gave him the prerogative to make such an appointment.

This latest battle among the coalition partners has revived the age old debate over the implementation of the National Accord which brought forth the power sharing deal between the President and the Premier.

PNU accuses ODM of demanding too much power while ODM is of the view that it is being undermined.

The constitution and tradition that has for 45 years governed the appointment of the leader of government business will be put to test Tuesday following the formation of a 50:50 power sharing coalition government.

source.kbc.ke

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