The National Intelligence Service (NIS) told President William Ruto that giving ODM the Majority Leader position in Parliament could lead to his impeachment, prompting the Head of State to negotiate with ODM, offering key parliamentary and Cabinet positions.
According to reports, the NIS briefing came at a time when ODM was pushing for significant positions in both Parliament and the Executive, immediately after Raila Odinga’s AUC Chairperson loss in Addis Ababa.
“The NIS warned that the Majority Leader could undermine the government’s agenda in Parliament, including the Budget, and create an opportunity for impeachment,” a close ally of President Ruto told the media on condition of anonymity.
His sentiments were echoed by a State House aide, who elaborated that the NIS had advised the President to use Raila’s current goodwill to secure control of Parliament.
“The intelligence team told the President that leaving Parliament to the opposition would lead to a crisis. He was advised to trade anything for the Majority Leader’s seat and ensure Wetang’ula remained Speaker,” the aide explained.
Last month, the High Court quashed a decision by Speaker of National Assembly Moses Wetang’ula declaring the Kenya Kwanza coalition the majority party in the House.
Following the landmark ruling by Justices John Chigiti, Jairus Ngaah and Lawrence Mugambi, ODM demanded the Majority Leader position, five additional Cabinet posts, and more Principal Secretary roles.
In addition to the Majority Leader position, currently held by Kimani Ichung’wah, ODM also sought Musalia Mudavadi’s Prime Cabinet Secretary post, Wetang’ula’s Speaker seat, and more Cabinet slots.
