Junet Announces Azimio's Withdrawal from House Business Committee

Speaker of the National Assembly Moses Wetang’ula has declared the Kenya Kwanza coalition as the majority party, claiming 165 members, in contrast to the 154 members of the Azimio coalition.

This declaration reinforces a previous position taken by Wetang’ula in 2022, which had been subsequently challenged in the High Court. On February 7, the High Court ruled that Wetang’ula's prior determination lacked sufficient evidence of formal political agreements with 14 MPs who had defected from Azimio-affiliated parties. Notwithstanding this judicial perspective, the Speaker has reiterated his stance, thereby maintaining the leadership structure currently in place within the House.

In reaction to the ruling, Junet Mohamed, the Leader of the Majority for Azimio, announced that members of his coalition would withdraw from the House Business Committee. This committee plays a critical role in approving the House agenda and making pivotal decisions regarding the prioritization and order of debates on various matters.

“I have no intentions to challenge your ruling, Mr. Speaker. Instead, I address the matter at hand,” Junet stated during a point of order, reflecting the parliamentary group's decision to exit the committee.

He argued that any decisions made in the absence of Azimio's participation would lack legitimacy. Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah has downplayed the significance of Azimio's withdrawal, asserting that the Committee remains properly constituted and will continue to fulfil its responsibilities regardless of Azimio's involvement.

“This House Business Committee will function, whether or not Azimio members participate. Mr. Speaker, you will guide us on the schedule of our next meeting, hopefully following this afternoon's adjournment,” says Ichung’wah.

Ichung’wah further criticizes the ongoing disputes over House leadership, emphasizing that such conflicts should not impede the MPs’ primary commitment to serving the Kenyan people. He points out that the privileges associated with both majority and minority leadership positions are comparable, questioning the rationale for the contention over majority status.

The session concluded with a dramatic walkout led by Junet Mohamed and his Azimio colleagues, signalling their protest against the Speaker's ruling.