By Charles Ogugbuaja, Owerri
Coalition of South East Youth Leaders (COSEYL) has expressed optimism that the Chief Whip of the Senate, Dr. Orji Kalu, would ensure a vibrant and progressive 10th Senate if elected Senate President by his colleagues.
The group also expressed support for Senator Abdul’aziz Yari as its preferred candidate for deputy Senate President. COSEYL made this known, yesterday, in a statement signed by its President General, Goodluck Ibem.
The group noted it had understudied the former Abia State governor since his election into the Senate, noting that his representation had remained impressive.
It informed that at a recent meeting of Igbo youths from the zone, they overwhelmingly voted for Kalu as their preferred choice for the coveted position.
The statement reads: “COSEYL calls on senators-elect of the 10th Senate to support and vote for Orji Kalu to lead as Senate President.
“Kalu became South East consensus candidate for the Senate Presidency after an open voting by Igbo youths.”
“We urge all senators to vote him as Senate President and Abdul’aziz Yari as deputy Senate President for development and progress of our nation.”COSEYL defended its stance, saying: “As representatives of our people in South East, we have the mandate of our people to do their bidding. We present Kalu as the consensus candidate for the position of Senate President by youths of the region.
“The adoption of Kalu is a confirmation that we reject the position of deputy Speaker, purportedly zoned to the South East.” The group insisted that Kalu’s performance in the Senate had remained legendary, saying: “As the Senate Chief Whip of the 9th Senate, he did his job dutifully by maintaining discipline and order in the discharge of his duties. The Senate chamber was what it should be under his watch as Chief Whip. He is truly a team player.
“Kalu is fully prepared and equipped to lead the Senate, and he will deliver,” the group added.
Source: The Guardian