Photo: UNDP

Jubilee candidate Uhuru Kenyatta has opted out of the second TV presidential debate (file photo).

THE next presidential TV debate is scheduled for Monday. But leading contender Uhuru Kenyatta reportedly does not want to go.

This is understandable. He was apparently angry that he was ambushed with questions about the ICC in the last debate ten days ago.

But according to the opinion polls, he was the clear winner, along with Peter Kenneth, in that first debate. His ratings went up.

So surely the Jubilee presidential candidate would benefit from attending the next TV debate?

There would also be a risk factor if he does not attend that his rivals will have a free hand to attack Uhuru without him being able to respond.

The first presidential TV debate was generally considered a great success, even if it was a bit too long and sometimes rambling.

It encouraged Kenyans to believe that the elections can be conducted in the same harmonious spirit demonstrated by the eight candidates when they were on stage.

Kenyan voters need to be fully informed. They need to hear the final comments and thoughts of the candidates. They need to know that the candidates are all cooperating.

Uhuru should reconsider his decision not to attend the next TV debate.

Quote of the day: "I do not agree with what you have to say, but I will defend to the death your right to say it." - French writer Voltaire was born on February 20, 1694.