Democratic Party of Kenya Withdraws from Kenya Kwanza Coalition
The Democratic Party of Kenya announced a withdrawal from the Kenya Kwanza coalition, effective within 30 days, citing political developments. CS Justin Muturi’s personal experiences, including his son’s abduction, have intensified his criticism of the government. The decision has sparked debate among political peers, who have accused him of politicizing his family’s trauma.
The Democratic Party of Kenya (DPK), under the leadership of Public Service Cabinet Secretary Justin Muturi, has formally issued a 30-day notice to withdraw from the Kenya Kwanza alliance. This decision is attributed to political circumstances that the party deems have rendered its membership in the coalition untenable. DPK officials announced this withdrawal in a letter directed to the Kenya Kwanza Coalition Secretariat on March 7, 2025.
Chairman Esau Kioni and Secretary General Jacob Haji highlighted in their letter that the current political climate necessitated this significant decision. The letter invokes the Termination Clause (8) of their coalition agreement, ensuring their exit becomes effective within 30 days from the notice date. Furthermore, copies of the letter were sent to key political figures and entities, including the Registrar of Political Parties.
Muturi’s decision to withdraw is compounded by his growing public criticism of the government, particularly following an incident involving his son’s abduction in June 2024, an experience he described as traumatic. In expressing his concerns about the troubling trend of enforced disappearances, he stated, “I have personally suffered as my son was abducted, leaving my family in turmoil.”
Despite being a member of the National Security Council at the time of the abduction, Muturi claimed he received no prior information regarding his son’s situation. He stated, “I’ve not gotten any answers as to why my son was abducted, held incommunicado, and nobody gave any reasons for that abduction.”
Critics within the ruling bloc have accused Muturi of politicizing personal grievances, linking his actions to prospective ambitions for the 2027 elections. Senator Wahome Wamatinga and MP Reuben Kiborek underscored that Muturi’s criticisms ought to have been addressed in private forums rather than publicly.
In response to the backlash, CS Muturi has conveyed his resilience, claiming he is prepared to face any consequences this move may precipitate. He stated, “I do not fear being sacked. I trust in God,” and affirmed he has submitted his resignation letter, indicating his commitment to his principles despite the political consequences.
The Democratic Party of Kenya’s withdrawal from the Kenya Kwanza coalition confirms the growing political tensions within the coalition, largely influenced by CS Justin Muturi’s personal and political circumstances. His public criticism of the government, particularly concerning his son’s abduction, has drawn scrutiny from political allies, who question his dual role in the government and opposition. This situation exemplifies the complexities in political alignments amid rising tensions in the region.
Original Source: eastleighvoice.co.ke
