Kenya Breaking News Breaking News Now
In a landmark ruling with far-reaching political ramifications, Kenya’s High Court has overturned Speaker Moses Wetangula’s declaration of the Kenya Kwanza Alliance as the majority party in the National Assembly. The court instead affirmed the Azimio la Umoja One Kenya Coalition Party as the legitimate majority, delivering a significant setback to President William Ruto’s administration.
The three-judge bench, comprising Justices John Chigiti, Jairus Ngaah, and Lawrence Mugambi, ruled on Friday that Azimio rightfully holds the majority based on official records from the Registrar of Political Parties. The judges emphasized that no evidence was presented to support claims of a post-election coalition agreement between the One Kenya Alliance (OKA) and other Azimio affiliates, as alleged by Speaker Wetangula and National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wa.
“The voters determined the majority through the ballot. The Speaker’s declaration cannot override the constitutional will of the people,” the court stated, nullifying Wetangula’s earlier decision. The ruling reinforces the principle that parliamentary majority status must align with election outcomes, as opposed to post-election political maneuvers.
Unconstitutional Dual Role of Speaker Wetangula
In a parallel blow to Kenya Kwanza, the court declared Wetangula’s dual role as Speaker of the National Assembly and leader of the Ford Kenya party unconstitutional. The judges ruled that Wetangula’s political leadership position conflicts with the Speaker’s mandate to remain impartial.
“Once he assumed the role of Speaker, he ceased to lawfully hold leadership in Ford Kenya,” the bench asserted. This decision complicates Kenya Kwanza’s legislative agenda, as Wetangula’s influence over parliamentary proceedings is now under scrutiny. Analysts suggest the ruling coalition may face hurdles in advancing key policies without assured control of the Assembly’s leadership.
Political Implications and Public Reaction
The judgment has intensified political tensions in Kenya, with Azimio leaders hailing it as a victory for democracy. Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, Azimio’s principal, described the ruling as a “triumph for constitutionalism,” urging Kenya Kwanza to respect the court’s authority.
Conversely, Kenya Kwanza allies have criticized the decision, accusing the judiciary of overreach. President Ruto, who has previously clashed with the courts over legislative and executive disputes, faces mounting pressure to recalibrate his coalition’s strategy. Legal experts, however, argue the ruling underscores judicial independence and adherence to electoral integrity.
What’s Next for Kenya’s Parliament?
The High Court’s orders now compel the National Assembly to recognize Azimio as the majority party, potentially reshuffling committee leadership and legislative priorities. Additionally, Wetangula must relinquish his Ford Kenya role or cede the Speaker’s chair, a dilemma that could trigger fresh political realignments.
As Kenya navigates this constitutional crossroads, the ruling reaffirms the judiciary’s role in checking parliamentary excesses and upholding democratic norms. For President Ruto, the path forward demands delicate negotiations to retain legislative influence while respecting the court’s verdict.
