Public Service Cabinet Secretary Justin Muturi addressed the Democratic Party’s exit from the Kenya Kwanza coalition, affirming he had no role in the decision due to constitutional limits on state officers’ political involvements. The Democratic Party cited political developments for leaving, issuing a formal 30-day exit notice as stipulated in the coalition agreement.
Public Service Cabinet Secretary Justin Muturi has issued a statement concerning the Democratic Party of Kenya’s departure from the Kenya Kwanza coalition, which he had previously led. On March 13, Muturi clarified that he had no role in this decision due to constitutional restrictions prohibiting appointed state officers from holding positions within political parties.
According to Muturi, “The Constitution of Kenya provides that any appointed state officer shall not hold any office in a political party.” He acknowledged that his acceptance of the Attorney General position required him to resign as the party leader, resulting in his current non-participation in party activities.
Muturi emphasized that the Democratic Party is not obligated to consult him regarding its decisions, stating, “The party doesn’t have to inform me about the activities that they are doing… they do the normal meetings and are at liberty to make whatever decision they feel is in the best interest of the party.”
In a letter dated March 7, the Democratic Party formally notified the Kenya Kwanza Coalition of its decision to exit. The party cited ongoing political developments as the justification for its withdrawal, asserting, “Kindly take notice that our stay in Kenya Kwanza Coalition is no longer tenable…”
The letter also specified that the party would provide a 30-day notice for its formal exit, as required by their coalition agreement, stating, “Democratic Party of Kenya 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, formed prior to the 2022 general elections, was initially composed of the United Democratic Alliance, the Amani National Congress, and FORD-Kenya. Over time, it expanded to include several other political entities, totaling twelve member parties including the recent entrants such as the Economic Freedom Party and the Democratic Party, which is now in the process of exiting the coalition.
In conclusion, Justin Muturi’s clarification on his non-involvement with the Democratic Party’s departure from the Kenya Kwanza coalition underscores his adherence to constitutional regulations concerning political positions. The Democratic Party’s decision, citing political developments, reflects an organizational autonomy in its political strategy. The ongoing evolution of the Kenya Kwanza coalition reveals the dynamic nature of political alliances in the region.
Original Source: nairobileo.co.ke
