The Devolution Empowerment Party (DEP), popularly known as the Mbus Party, has firmly stated that it is not in any formal coalition with Kenya Kwanza or any other political formation. Speaking on April 25, party founder and former Meru Governor Kiraitu Murungi reaffirmed that the Mbus Party remains independent and will continue to chart its own political path.
“The Bus Party is non-aligned. The Bus Party is autonomous. The Bus Party is independent,” Kiraitu declared. He emphasized that the party has no pre-election or post-election coalition agreement with Kenya Kwanza, United Democratic Alliance (UDA), Narc Kenya, or any other political party.
Kiraitu clarified that all formal coalitions must be registered with the Registrar of Political Parties and confirmed that no such registration exists for the Mbus Party. His statement comes despite previous political interactions, including a January meeting with President William Ruto at State House, which had sparked speculation about a potential alliance.
DEP Chairman and former Embu Senator Lenny Kivuti supported Kiraitu’s remarks, noting that while the party occasionally works with others on specific issues, there has never been any formal agreement signed. Kivuti added that the Mbus Party has faced systematic sidelining since the 2022 General Election, further justifying its decision to stand independently.
This declaration comes at a time of heightened political realignment in the Mt. Kenya region. Former Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mithika Linturi recently joined former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s camp, while the Democratic Party earlier announced its exit from Kenya Kwanza. These shifts signal growing unease within the ruling coalition’s support base.
Meanwhile, the Mbus Party has announced plans to field a candidate in the upcoming Mbeere North by-election following the appointment of MP Geoffrey Ruku to the Cabinet. Kivuti affirmed the party’s commitment to capturing the seat and hinted at the possibility of collaborating with “like-minded parties that respect and value” the Mbus Party’s independence.
As political temperatures rise, the Mbus Party’s firm stance could reshape the battle for influence in Mt. Kenya ahead of the next general elections.
