ODM-Kenya manifesto pledges to end poverty

from The Standard

By Mutinda Mwanzia

ODM-Kenya presidential candidate Mr Kalonzo Musyoka unveiled the party manifesto, saying it would provide a socio-political and economic miracle.

The launch at Kamukunji grounds in Nairobi saw the manifesto rolled out for public scrutiny to a call of ‘Komesha Umaskini’ (end poverty).

Kalonzo said the manifesto aims at transforming the country from its current status, where people live in poverty, to a modern vibrant economy.

"We will put in place structures where our people have food on the table, savings in banks and investments," said Kalonzo.

The manifesto that is hinged on 14 key issues saw the party pledge to spearhead the delivery of a new constitutional dispensation based on the Bomas draft.

"The current Government promised a new constitution within 100 days and reneged on that pledge. I promise to give the nation a document that protects their freedoms," he said.

He added the fight against corruption would be a reality, saying promises to fight corruption had been insincere.

He noted that corruption and wastage of public resources was the main cause of economic stagnation.

He said the party would foster economic federalism as a way of generating and distributing wealth equitably.

Kalonzo said an ODM-Kenya government would take agriculture to the next level by reducing the cost of production and the value addition of products before export. Massive investment in infrastructure would make roads, railways and telephony become more efficient.

He pledged free secondary education to cushion the poor and make education accessible.

"Many bright students have dropped out of school due to lack of fees. My government will give them hope," he said.

He said that his government would widen access to quality health care through the introduction of a National Health Insurance Scheme.

He pledged to put in place taxation policies that would create wealth for Kenyans and offer relief to the vulnerable.