Former Vice President Kalonzo Musyoka claims he persuaded retired President Mwai Kibaki to appoint President Uhuru Kenyatta as Deputy Prime Minister in the grand coalition government.
In an interview with Citizen TV's Francis Gachuri, Kalonzo Musyoka stated,
I am not bitter with anybody, my friend. Maybe it’s the manner of expression because to drive home a point in the opposition you may have to wear a face. I am not bitter with the President; these are all my friends.
Kalonzo Musyoka further explained,
Forget about the famous shuttle diplomacy. Convincing Kibaki to appoint him deputy prime minister was not an easy thing. I have been there for my friends.
Context of the Appointment ¶
Uhuru Kenyatta was appointed as the second Deputy Prime Minister in April 2008, following a disputed general election. At the time, Musalia Mudavadi served as the first Deputy Prime Minister, and Raila Odinga held the position of Prime Minister.
Kalonzo Musyoka also expressed that he has no issues with Deputy President William Ruto or his co-principal Raila Odinga, stating,
I’m actually very much at peace with myself. What I have a problem with are the injustices that I see being perpetuated. I will not stop at anything.
