Deputy President William Ruto’s URP party yesterday downplayed perceived differences with TNA.
In a strange turn, URP officials yesterday held a press conference to review the party’s performance since the Jubilee government was sworn in.
They said they called the National Executive Council to discuss how to roll out activities to make the party vibrant at the grassroots.
URP chairman Francis ole Kaparo said they will open more branches in the country.
He said the party is determined to ensure devolution works.
In the past URP members have accused their coalition partners TNA of sidelining them in government.
They have also claimed that President Uhuru Kenyatta party is excluding them from decision making, some that require joint participation.
The members also claimed in the past that TNA is hiding from them business opportunities.
However, last week, President Uhuru Kenyatta’s TNA party also accused its coalition partner URP of attempting to poach its members and interfering with its internal affairs.
Yesterday, the NEC meeting addressed by Chairman Francis Ole Kaparo said that statements from Governor Issac Rutto that the Jubilee government is killing devolution are personal and do not represent the position of the party.
“We will allow divergent opinions within the party to strengthen democracy. As a party, we are satisfied with the performance of the party so far. We did well in the elections and the by elections and we will field candidates in any bye election,” Kaparo said.
He said the NEC has also resolved to implement strategic decisions relevant for 2017.
“URP is committed to devolution and any opinion being expressed to the contrary should be taken as personal and not the party position,” Kaparo said.
– the-star.co.ke
