Ruto, Raila strike parliamentary power-sharing deal to avert legislative crisis
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In a landmark political agreement, President William Ruto and opposition leader Raila Odinga have reached a deal on sharing National Assembly committee leadership positions, ensuring smooth parliamentary operations and preventing further divisions between the ruling Kenya Kwanza alliance and the opposition Azimio coalition.
It was gathered that the agreement, forged during a high-level meeting at State House on Monday, followed a contentious ruling on which political faction holds the majority in the House.
Attendees included Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, Senate Majority Leader Aaron Cheruiyot, Minority Leader Steward Madzayo, National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah, Minority Leader Junet Mohamed, and Minority Whip Millie Odhiambo.
As a goodwill gesture, Azimio agreed to withdraw their push to impeach Speaker Moses Wetangula, signaling a shift toward political cooperation.
In return, President Ruto conceded to the opposition taking leadership of several influential parliamentary committees previously controlled by Kenya Kwanza lawmakers.
Among the committees now under Azimio’s leadership are Budget and Appropriation, Health, Trade and Industry, Labour, and Regional Integration, granting them greater influence over crucial legislative matters. The restructuring also saw allies of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua lose key positions.
This power-sharing deal marks a significant step toward political stability, averting a potential legislative deadlock that could have hampered governance and economic progress.