Cabinet Secretary Justin Muturi addressed the Democratic Party’s exit from the Kenya Kwanza coalition, clarifying his non-involvement due to constitutional restrictions on political party positions. He stated the party acted independently and provided formal notice of their departure, citing political developments as their reason for leaving the coalition that President William Ruto leads.
Public Service Cabinet Secretary Justin Muturi has addressed the recent departure of the Democratic Party of Kenya from the Kenya Kwanza coalition, a group he was previously affiliated with. On March 13, he clarified that he had no role in this decision, citing constitutional restrictions that prevent appointed state officers from holding positions within political parties.
Muturi referenced the Kenyan Constitution, indicating that his acceptance of the Attorney General role required him to resign as party leader, as he cannot partake in any political activities as an appointed official. He firmly stated, “I do not participate in the activities of the party in any of its organs because it would be a violation of the Constitution.”
The Cabinet Secretary went on to explain that the Democratic Party is not required to consult him regarding their decisions or activities, emphasizing their autonomy. He mentioned that the party operates independently, and thus, it did not need to inform him of its plans to exit the coalition.
In a letter dated March 7 to the Kenya Kwanza Coalition Secretariat, the Democratic Party cited political circumstances as the basis for their withdrawal. They announced that their continued membership was untenable, stating, “Kindly take notice that our stay in Kenya Kwanza Coalition is no longer tenable due to the prevailing political developments.”
The party also indicated a 30-day notice period for their exit, as outlined in the coalition agreement. The letter specified this exit process according to the agreement’s Termination Clause, stating, “Democratic Party of Kenya, vide this letter, hereby gives a thirty (30) day notice to exit the Coalition as stipulated in the Termination Clause (8) in the Coalition Agreement.”
The Kenya Kwanza coalition, which President William Ruto leads, was initially formed ahead of the 2022 elections, incorporating parties such as the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) and Amani National Congress (ANC). Since then, it has grown to include various other parties, totaling twelve members, including the Democratic Party—a party now in the process of exiting the coalition.
In summary, Cabinet Secretary Justin Muturi has distanced himself from the Democratic Party’s decision to withdraw from the Kenya Kwanza coalition, citing constitutional limitations on his political involvement. He confirmed the party’s legal right to make its own decisions without his consultation, as outlined in their official correspondence. This departure adds to the evolving political landscape within the Kenya Kwanza coalition, which has expanded significantly since its inception.
Original Source: nairobileo.co.ke
