Mbeere North Member of Parliament Geoffrey Ruku has made it clear that his political allegiance remains steadfast with the Kenya Kwanza coalition, even as his party, the Democratic Party (DP), moves to exit the alliance. Ruku’s remarks highlight a growing divide between individual politicians and party decisions, raising questions about the future dynamics within Kenya’s political landscape.
Democratic Party’s Notice to Exit Kenya Kwanza
The Democratic Party, closely associated with Cabinet Secretary Justin Muturi, issued a 30-day notice to the Registrar of Political Parties (ORPP) signaling its intent to leave the Kenya Kwanza coalition. This announcement was confirmed by the Registrar of Political Parties, Anne Nderitu, who acknowledged receipt of the official letter.
Speaking to The Star, DP Secretary General Jacob Haji stated that the party’s leadership is preparing for the next steps, including possibly fielding a presidential candidate in the 2027 general election.
Haji emphasized, “We are waiting for the 30-day notice to lapse so that we can be officially cleared by the Registrar of Political Parties before our National Executive Council (NEC) meets to map out the next steps.”
The DP leadership is also keen on forming new alliances, with Haji stating, “We are scouting for like-minded partners who will listen and work collaboratively to prevent us from ending up in the same situation as before.”
Ruku’s Defiance Against Party Decisions
In a televised interview with TV47, MP Geoffrey Ruku underscored his commitment to President William Ruto and the Kenya Kwanza coalition, distancing himself from the Democratic Party’s decision to leave the alliance.
“I am a member of the party, but I don’t remember attending such a meeting where we discussed that the Democratic Party is going to pull out of the Kenya Kwanza coalition. To that extent, that is not a decision which I can say is binding to me,” Ruku stated.
He further affirmed, “From where I sit, I will continue working closely with the Kenya Kwanza coalition. My loyalty is to the government policies and leadership under President William Ruto.”
Ruku’s decision has drawn attention as it showcases a growing trend of individual MPs prioritizing their affiliations and personal political goals over party mandates.
Implications for the Democratic Party
The Democratic Party’s exit from Kenya Kwanza has sparked debates about the potential fallout within the party. With leaders like Geoffrey Ruku openly dissenting, the party risks internal divisions that could weaken its influence and strategic goals.
According to Haji, the party’s exit from Kenya Kwanza is a calculated move to regain political independence and avoid being overshadowed by dominant coalition partners. He noted, “We want to rebuild the Democratic Party as a formidable force capable of influencing national politics and standing on its own in the 2027 elections.”
However, political analysts warn that such moves could backfire if prominent members like Ruku choose to align themselves with the ruling coalition instead of the party’s leadership.
Kenya Kwanza’s Response to Party Exits
The Kenya Kwanza coalition, led by President William Ruto, has largely remained silent on the Democratic Party’s exit. However, insiders suggest that the coalition’s leadership is confident in retaining the loyalty of key members like Geoffrey Ruku, ensuring minimal disruption to its parliamentary majority and legislative agenda.
Ruku’s public support highlights the coalition’s strategy of fostering individual relationships with MPs, thereby mitigating the impact of party exits. Political commentator David Owino observed, “Ruto’s approach to building personal alliances within Parliament ensures that even if parties leave the coalition, the core support base remains intact.”
The Bigger Picture: Political Realignments in Kenya
The Democratic Party’s decision to exit Kenya Kwanza is part of a broader trend of political realignments in Kenya. As parties reassess their positions ahead of the 2027 elections, coalitions like Kenya Kwanza and Azimio la Umoja face significant challenges in maintaining unity.
For the Democratic Party, this move is seen as a chance to redefine its identity and chart a new political course. But the decision comes with risks, especially if influential members like Geoffrey Ruku continue to dissent publicly.
Key Takeaways
- MP Geoffrey Ruku’s loyalty to Kenya Kwanza underscores a growing divide between individual politicians and party mandates.
- The Democratic Party’s 30-day notice to exit Kenya Kwanza signals a desire for political independence but raises questions about internal cohesion.
- Ruku’s defiance highlights the Kenya Kwanza coalition’s strategy of fostering personal relationships with MPs to counteract party exits.
- The Democratic Party’s leadership faces the challenge of balancing strategic goals with retaining its membership base.
- The broader political landscape in Kenya is shifting as parties and coalitions prepare for the 2027 general election.
Conclusion
The decision by MP Geoffrey Ruku to remain loyal to the Kenya Kwanza coalition, despite his party’s planned exit, is a testament to the complexities of Kenya’s political alliances. As the Democratic Party navigates its post-Kenya Kwanza strategy, the challenges of maintaining unity and relevance will undoubtedly shape its path toward the 2027 elections. Meanwhile, Kenya Kwanza’s ability to retain key members like Ruku will be crucial in sustaining its influence and legislative agenda.