Since the 2022 elections, the dispute over which coalition controls the majority in Kenya’s National Assembly has been a hot topic. The majority of MPs were initially in the Azimio coalition, but the balance of power changed when several MPs who were Azimio-aligned defected to the Kenya Kwanza (KK) coalition. Azimio contested the validity of the defections and the Speaker’s designation of KK as the majority, which led to legal and political issues.
Moses Wetangula, the speaker of the National Assembly, was recently found to have violated the constitution when he decided to recognize KK as the majority. Junet Mohamed and Millie Odhiambo, the leaders of Azimio, seized the majority seats and proclaimed themselves the majority leaders after this ruling. The political tension increased even more as a result.
Speaker Wetangula, however, requested a meeting of the National Assembly and, after assessing the circumstances, reiterated that KK still holds the majority. Wetangula contended that the court’s decision ignored the fact that two more parties, Maendeleo Chap Chap and PAA (Patriotic Alliance of Kenya), had joined KK and that their affiliation with the party had been formally acknowledged by the Registrar of Political Parties. Wetangula consequently announced that Azimio is still in the minority with 154 MPs, while KK now has 165 MPs.
Discussions concerning the Speaker’s constitutional interpretation and the validity of the defections have been rekindled by this declaration. With both coalitions defending their stances and the possibility of additional legal challenges, the situation is still unstable.
Supporters of both coalitions have responded to the development in a variety of ways, sharing their opinions on social media and other channels. While some have applauded the Speaker’s decision as a solution to the persistent political ambiguity, others have criticized it.
Reactions
“Why are such figures nominated for such positions when everyone knows they are not competent? Was he chosen by chance, or what?” Lewis said.
“We are wasting our sitting allowances by discussing issues that have no value to Kenya,” George said.
“But how come Azimio has the majority but Raila is silent? Kwani counting has been a problem, ama.” Okuto said.
“The current parliament is a money-mincing House, designed to benefit Wabunge by providing generous sitting allowances and discussing broad topics.” Cheruiyot said.
“What is this ping pong game about? Just as someone was enjoying the warmth of a seat, he was ejected. ” Oduor said.
“I told you yesterday that this is a biased parliament, and the speaker has decided to keep the status quo.” Mangee said
By Newsmedia