If President William Ruto tries to dismiss Public Service Cabinet Secretary Justin Muturi, he will encounter formidable obstacles. A legally binding coalition deal with the Kenya Kwanza government via the Democratic Party supports Muturi’s stance. This agreement gives him the legal foundation to contest any attempts at impeachment in court, in addition to legitimizing his position. Although it puts him at serious legal and procedural risk, it does not completely shield him from parliamentary action.
Muturi’s extensive political background makes matters more complicated. He has influence and respect, particularly in Mount Kenya East, having served as the National Assembly Speaker for ten years and as a former magistrate. Any attempt to remove him runs the risk of offending his local supporters, who are an important voting bloc for Ruto’s administration.
Furthermore, after receiving criticism for their role in the ouster of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, Mount Kenya MPs are reluctant to back another impeachment procedure. Muturi’s detractors have also exercised caution because they are aware that his solid political and regional ties could work against them.
The removal of Muturi presents a serious obstacle for Ruto given the legal, political, and regional factors at play, compelling the government to think of other options.
By Newsmedia