The running mate of independent presidential candidate, Japhet Kavinga Kaluyu, Muthiora Kariara, during presidential running mates debate at CUEA, July 17, 2017. [Photo: @ntvkenya]A number of Kenyans have expressed disappointment, after seven presidential running mates failed to show up for the running mates debate, Monday evening.
Debates Media Ltd organised the event at the Catholic University of Eastern Africa (CUEA), but only Muthiora Kariara, the running mate of independent presidential candidate, Japhet Kavinga Kaluyu, showed up.
The steering committee allowed him on stage, solo, for 90 minutes, with Kenyans expressing their trust in him. They hailed his performance, saying his political future was on the right track.
Some few running mates, however, showed up hours later, and were denied access to the debating auditorium, for failing to keep time.
Below are some of the comments from Kenyans on Twitter, under #DebatesKE
@josiah_mutua More
#DebatesKE am so disappointed with Kalonzo and Ruto. We may vote Raila or Uhuru on August 8th, but come 2022, you two prepare to go home.
@Alex_Mwakideu More
#DebatesKe This is a Sad day for Kenya. They want an opportunity to serve and yet they don't want to discuss the service they will offer!
@VickyRubadiri More
Two examples of leadership seen tonight. One showing the hope of Kenya, the other, the reality of the current political crop.#DebatesKE
@_jamesMaina More
I noted the media didn't care to prepare a comprehensive story on Eliud Muthiora Kariara for prime time news. Part of the problem #DebatesKe
@BKhaniri More
Jubilee cannot accept to participate, directly or otherwise, in NASA decision making. #DebatesKe
@okothkenneth More
As long as biased Kenyan media keeps airing illegal Jubilee adverts under guise of #PDUDelivers boycott of #debatesKE not a surprise #KOT
@bonifacemwangi More
I am ready for Starehe MP's debate. #StareheNiBonnie #debatesKE
@Mwana_nchi More
Eliud Muthiora Kariara is a story where you woke up only known by 200 people and after #debatesKE half the country know you. Usiwai jifunga
@ItsMainaPaul More
The debate was about desperation and hope of this great nation Kenya.Kariara represented the hope #DebatesKe
@KunguJohn2016 More
#DebatesKE If they dont c the importance of debate why cover their shoddy campaign?Total blackout for their activities from ALL media hses.
@PL0_Lumumba More
Thieves and thugs cannot come and face each other in a public debate! They only send representatives. #DebatesKe
@namulunda More
Dear media houses, The best way to honor @KariaraMuthiora for honoring you: 1. Invite him for interviews2.Cover his campaigns #debatesKE