Senator Linturi Admits His ‘Madoadoa’ Remark Was Excessive

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Meru Senator Mithika Linturi has bowed to pressure and apologized after his utterance during a rally attended by Deputy President William Ruto in Eldoret on Saturday sparked controversy among Kenyans.

Linturi asked residents of Uasin Gishu to domineer over Dr. Ruto’s critics in the county.

Referring to the DP’s opponents as “Madoadoa”, the lawmaker said the county should support the DP to the last man.

In a statement, the senator claims that he was taken out of context.

Admitting that his choice of words was unwarranted, Linturi said he was just urging the area to vote UDA candidates in the coming General Election.

He clarified that his intentions were not to incite communities in Rift Valley against each other.

Years ago, a former Head of State used the word ‘Madoadoa’ in Rift Valley to warn tribes that were from other parts of the country. He warned the communities of dire consequences if they did not vote him.

Here is Linturi’s full statement:

Today, while addressing the UDA rally at Eldoret, I expressed myself using words which in certain context, have acquired sinister political overtones and come to be associated with incitement and hate speech.

At that moment, I was vigorously urging our supporters to offer full support to UDA candidates in this year’s election, and was oblivious of the possibility that my choice of words might assume negative meaning.

It is true that words like ‘madoadoa’, whilst otherwise innocent and legitimate expressions, have in certain contexts come to be understood as representing inflammatory intent. This context did not occur to me while I was speaking.

I must point out that my use of these words was in specific reference to our Parliamentary colleagues from Uasin Gishu County, who do not support UDA, and whom I urged voters to reject in favour of UDA candidates, given that we are in a political contest, and they are our rivals.

On further reflection, and upon the advise of my colleagues, I regretfully concede that my choice of words was unfortunate. I therefore apologise, unreservedly, for the discomfort they may have created.

I also take this opportunity to assure all Kenyans of my commitment, both as a citizen and as a leader, to national unity, peace, and cohesion within and among all communities.

Hon. Mithika Linturi.
Senator, Meru County.

The post Senator Linturi Admits His ‘Madoadoa’ Remark Was Excessive appeared first on LitKenya.

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