News

Story by JONATHAN KONUCHE

President Kibaki launches his presidential campaign tomorrow, just a day after a Steadman Group poll rating showed him trailing ODM’s Raila Odinga, who is leading with 47 per cent.

Three months ago, the President was rated top with 45 per cent while Raila stood at 25 per cent. President Kibaki’s rating has now dipped to 38 per cent which observers attribute to several negative factors, most of which germinate from his own camp.

It is believed President Kibaki’s delay in naming his re-election vehicle brought confusion in his camp. This led to unhealthy competition among his staunch supporters in various camps, including the Democratic Party and Narc Kenya. Even after naming of PNU as re-election vehicle, confusion still reigned over the mode of nomination to be adopted in the umbrella party.

Apparent silence

The issue has created disagreements among partner parties and the President’s apparent silence on the matter probably has sent a signal that the captain may not really be in charge.

With less than 100 days to the General Election, President Kibaki is yet to flag off his re-election vehicle although his opponents have already hit the road. Former President Moi’s entry into Kibaki’s camp was also seen to have further tainted the President’s image.

The Government’s loud silence over the Kroll report, released just days after Mr Moi pledged his allegiance to Mr Kibaki’s re-election bid may have done some harm.

The leaked report alleges that an estimated Sh130 billion of taxpayers’ money has been stashed away in overseas banks by a corrupt network, mainly in the former regime. Mr Moi’s association with Mr Kibaki is viewed as insincere, with most people saying he brought bitter memories into the camp.

Other scandals such as the Anglo Leasing and the Artur brothers saga where members of Kibaki’s Government were widely mentioned may have affected his rating.