Narc Kenya leader Martha Karua has firmly declined an invitation to join President William Ruto’s government as Attorney General. This stance underscores her continued resistance to engaging with the Kenya Kwanza administration, despite increasing calls for political reconciliation and unity.
On Saturday, Karua responded to an endorsement by social media user Peter Kariuki, who suggested that she would be an ideal candidate for the Attorney General position. Kariuki’s endorsement was based on the belief that Karua’s expertise and legal acumen would be highly beneficial to the government. “I support Martha Karua for the position of Attorney General. Her advice is much needed by the Government. Martha Karua should take the position immediately,” Kariuki’s message read.
However, Karua’s reply was succinct and clear: “Thanks, not interested.” Her response highlights her ongoing discontent with President Ruto’s administration and her refusal to be co-opted into its fold. Karua has been a staunch critic of the Kenya Kwanza government, which she accuses of failing to meet the expectations of the electorate.
Karua’s resistance is consistent with her party’s recent moves. Narc Kenya’s decision to issue a notice of intention to exit the Azimio coalition came as a surprise to many, particularly given Karua’s previous assurances of a solid relationship with coalition leader Raila Odinga. The decision aligns with her broader political strategy to distance herself from the current administration and to emphasize her commitment to opposition politics.
During a radio interview on Tuesday, Karua had expressed her dissatisfaction with the government’s performance and suggested that Raila Odinga’s withdrawal from the African Union Commission candidacy would be a significant step towards strengthening the opposition’s role. “To his credit, he has said he is even ready to forfeit his candidature at AUC which means he has now freed himself from being arm-twisted,” Karua remarked. This statement indicates Karua’s belief in the necessity of a robust opposition to hold the government accountable and push for meaningful reforms.
The move by her party to consider withdrawing from Azimio follows the recent inclusion of ODM members in Ruto’s cabinet. Notable ODM figures who have joined the Kenya Kwanza administration include John Mbadi (Treasury), Hassan Joho (Mining and Blue Economy), Wycliffe Oparanya (Cooperatives and MSME Development), and Opiyo Wandayi (Energy and Petroleum). Their appointments have stirred controversy within the opposition, adding to the strain between Karua and the Kenya Kwanza government.
Karua’s reluctance to join the government is part of a broader strategy to reinforce the opposition’s stance and influence. By rejecting offers and emphasizing her criticism of the current administration, Karua aims to remain a significant voice in Kenyan politics, advocating for transparency and accountability.
In summary, Martha Karua’s recent statements and actions reflect her steadfast commitment to opposing the Kenya Kwanza government. Her refusal to consider the Attorney General role and her party’s potential exit from Azimio underscore her strategic focus on maintaining a critical role in the opposition and advocating for reforms. As the political landscape continues to evolve, Karua’s decisions will likely play a pivotal role in shaping the direction of Kenyan politics.
