The Kenya Kwanza coalition has suffered yet another setback following the official withdrawal of the Devolution Empowerment Party (DEP), popularly known as MBUS.
The party, led by prominent political figures including former Meru Governor Kiraitu Murungi, former Embu Senator Lenny Kivuti, and deputy party leader Titus Ntuchiu, cited exclusion from government processes, lack of a formal coalition agreement, and growing public suffering under the current administration as key reasons for their departure.
Speaking during a press briefing, Kiraitu Murungi affirmed the party’s independence, stating that MBUS is not part of any formal coalition.
“The MBUS party is non-aligned, autonomous, and independent. We are currently not in any formal coalition.
In a true coalition, there must be agreements filed with the Registrar of Political Parties. We have none with UDA or any other party,” Murungi said.
DEP leadership expressed disappointment in the Kenya Kwanza alliance, accusing it of sidelining the party despite its support in the 2022 general elections.
They noted that MBUS had not been involved in key national decision-making processes and had been denied recognition as a serious political partner.
Lenny Kivuti described the party’s move as necessary, pointing to growing discontent among their supporters.
“Our voice has been ignored. Our people are suffering, yet those in government whom we supported are silent on matters affecting ordinary citizens. We cannot be bystanders anymore,” he stated.
Titus Ntuchiu echoed this sentiment, citing recent concerns about the affordability of education, especially the impact of funding changes at KMTC.
“Kenyans are suffering. I read yesterday that 4% of students admitted to KMTC couldn’t join because they couldn’t afford the fees,” he noted.
The party now plans to focus on grassroots mobilization and internal restructuring ahead of the upcoming Mbere North parliamentary by-election, following Geoffrey Ruku’s appointment to the Cabinet.
While not completely ruling out future cooperation with President William Ruto’s camp, MBUS insists any renewed alliance must be built on mutual respect and equality.
DEP’s exit follows similar moves by the Farmers Party, which issued a 30-day notice to leave the coalition earlier in April, and the Democratic Party of Kenya, which also severed ties with Kenya Kwanza citing untenable political conditions.
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