Karua Vows to Fight On as ODM Members Nominated to Cabinet

Narc-Kenya party leader Martha Karua has expressed her resolve to continue advocating for reforms following the recent nomination of Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) members to cabinet positions by President William Ruto. This move has ignited a storm of controversy and highlighted deepening divisions within the opposition coalition, Azimio la Umoja-One Kenya.

Karua’s response came after President Ruto unveiled a slate of 21 cabinet secretaries, predominantly comprising ODM members, a decision that has sparked dissatisfaction among other coalition parties. In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), Karua criticized the apparent exclusion of the broader opposition bloc, arguing that the nominations undermine the spirit of inclusive governance. “Let every person stand by the courage of their convictions #AlutaContinua,” Karua declared, underscoring her commitment to push for systemic changes.

Karua’s statements resonate with a broader sense of discontent among the affiliate parties of the Azimio coalition. DAP-K, PNU, Jubilee, and Wiper parties, who are also part of the Azimio la Umoja coalition, have voiced their concerns about Ruto’s proposed broad-based government. They argue that their exclusion from key positions and the current negotiations reflects a disregard for their role in the opposition. Kalonzo Musyoka, a prominent figure in the coalition, publicly denounced the exclusion, asserting that the Azimio-OKA coalition would not engage in discussions with the Kenya Kwanza coalition under the current circumstances. The disruption of Musyoka’s press conference by unknown assailants on July 17, 2024, further compounded the tensions, highlighting the volatile nature of the political climate.

Ruto’s administration has promised to name a final cabinet member, yet this gesture has done little to alleviate the grievances among opposition parties. The nomination process, which has seen ODM members prominently featured, has exacerbated the fractures within the opposition. As Karua and other coalition leaders continue to voice their frustrations, the lack of representation for affiliate parties within the cabinet has become a focal point of their critique.

In his response, ODM leader Raila Odinga has urged for swift approvals of the cabinet nominees, emphasizing the need for unity and expedience in the formation of the new government. “I want to congratulate the President for the appointments but also request that within the week, as soon as tomorrow, we want to see those appointments Baba was to forward today and we want all of them approved,” said Odinga. This call reflects an effort to balance the internal disagreements while pushing for a stable government formation.

The current political turmoil underscores the challenges facing Kenya’s multi-party system, particularly in balancing representation and fostering cooperation among diverse political groups. As the cabinet nominations become a flashpoint for broader debates about inclusivity and governance, Karua’s vow to fight on signals ongoing struggles within the opposition to assert their influence and demand equitable participation in the country’s political processes.

The unfolding situation is a testament to the dynamic and often contentious nature of Kenyan politics, where alliances are frequently tested and political maneuvers have significant implications for governance and reform. As President Ruto’s administration moves forward with its cabinet appointments, the response from opposition leaders like Karua will likely shape the political discourse and determine the trajectory of Kenya’s political landscape in the coming months.