Kenya's opposition picks ex-PM as its flag-bearer

Kenya's opposition coalition, the National Super Alliance (NASA), on Thursday picked former Prime Minister Raila Odinga as its presidential candidate.

Odinga, who has unsuccessfully contested for the presidency three times before, will now face incumbent President Uhuru Kenyatta in the August general elections with former Vice-President Kalonzo Musyoka as his running mate.

NASA brings together Odinga, who is the leader of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM); Wiper Democratic Party, led by Musyoka; Ford Kenya, led by former foreign minister Moses Wetangula; Amani National Congress (ANC), under ex-deputy premier Musalia Mudavadi; and Chama Cha Mashinani (CCM), led by Governor Isaac Rutto.

The line-up, released at a political rally in Nairobi, comprises of a presidential candidate, his deputy, and posts of premier cabinet secretary and his two deputies.

In his acceptable speech, the 72-year-old Odinga vowed to bring radical reforms if elected in August, including tackling corruption, eradicating nepotism and bring down the cost of living.

"I take this opportunity as a rare honor bestowed on me by my fellow colleagues," said Odinga, who contested the presidency in 1997, 2007 and in 2013.

Odinga said that he intends to reform Kenya by ensuring that there are jobs for college graduates and fostering unity among citizens.

The five leaders, who unveiled a seven-pillar policy platform that would form its campaign agenda, vowed to remain united ahead of the elections.

They include national reconciliation, resolving historical injustices, equality for women, youth, persons with disabilities and disadvantaged communities. They also plan to strengthen devolution to help eradicate poverty. Endit