This archive report was first published on 19 August 2021.
Former UNCTAD Secretary-General Mukhisa Kituyi has refused to engage with a viral video that has sparked controversy ahead of next year's polls.
Appearing on Citizen TV's 'News Night' show, Kituyi was asked about the video, but he chose to ignore the question, saying he wouldn't lower the debate of his candidature below his neck.
Kituyi, who is vying for the presidency, stated that he has no dirty tricks up his sleeves for any of his perceived opponents and promised to run a diligent campaign based on ideals.
On the viral video, Kituyi told his host Waihiga Mwaura, 'I don't want to lower the debate of my candidature below my neck. The assets I want to bring to this are; who is Kituyi? What does he stand for in this country? I will sustain a campaign nationally throughout of dignity, respect, even for my opponents, and that's as much as I want to say about that.'
Kituyi further emphasized the importance of personal integrity in leadership, saying Kenyans should judge him on the basis of his competency and integrity.
He added, 'I believe personal integrity issues are important in the choice of leaders across the board. Kenyans should judge me on the basis of my integrity, and judge me on the basis of how I deal with national challenges.'
Kituyi also denied issuing a statement blaming the leaked video on his political opponents, saying it was a manufactured story.
