Cabinet Secretary Justin Muturi clarified that he was not involved in the Democratic Party of Kenya’s exit from the Kenya Kwanza coalition due to legal restrictions on state officers’ political roles. He emphasized that the party’s decision was independent and followed proper notice protocols. The departure marks a significant change for the coalition, which originally included numerous political organizations prior to the 2022 elections.
Public Service Cabinet Secretary Justin Muturi addressed the media regarding the Democratic Party of Kenya’s recent decision to exit the Kenya Kwanza coalition, a move he stated he was not involved in. Muturi emphasized that appointed state officers, such as himself, are barred by law from holding positions within political parties, thus he had resigned from his leadership role in the Democratic Party prior to assuming his current office.
Furthermore, Muturi clarified that the Democratic Party is under no legal obligation to consult him before making any decisions. He reiterated that the party routinely conducts its meetings and is free to pursue what it believes to be in its best interest. According to Muturi, the party’s decision to formally notify the Registrar of Political Parties about its exit from the coalition was an independent action that did not require his prior knowledge.
The Democratic Party formally communicated its intention to exit the coalition in a letter dated March 7, citing political circumstances as the rationale for their withdrawal. The letter specified that the party would provide a 30-day notice, adhering to the coalition agreement’s termination clause. This step marks a significant shift as the party aligns itself apart from Kenya Kwanza, which was originally formed ahead of the 2022 general elections.
Kenya Kwanza was initially established by the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) alongside the Amani National Congress (ANC) and the Forum for the Restoration of Democracy–Kenya (FORD–Kenya). Over time, the coalition expanded to include twelve parties, encompassing various political associations such as the Economic Freedom Party (EFP) and the Service Party (TSP), among others, accommodating a broader political spectrum.
In summary, the Democratic Party of Kenya’s exit from the Kenya Kwanza coalition underscores significant political shifts within the landscape. Cabinet Secretary Justin Muturi confirmed his non-involvement in the party’s decision due to constitutional mandates. With this departure, the coalition, originally formed by numerous parties, faces an evolving dynamic ahead of future political engagements.
Original Source: nairobileo.co.ke
