This decision comes after a petition was filed, arguing that it is unconstitutional for individuals to hold both public office and political party positions at the same time.
The court’s ruling affects seven key officials from the Jubilee Party, including Nelson Dzuya, Joshua Kutuny, Naomi Shaban, Angwenyi Jimmy Nuru Ondiek, Peter Ole Mositet, Mutava Musyimi, and Joel Kibe.
These individuals have been granted 30 days to make their decision—whether to stay in the party or keep their government jobs.
The ruling stems from a case brought by Joseph Kagai through his lawyer, Jackson Awele. Kagai’s argument was based on the premise that holding two powerful positions—one in the political party and one in the government—creates a conflict of interest and violates the Kenyan Constitution.
The court’s decision was clear: these Jubilee officials must choose one path. They can either continue their work in the government or remain in leadership roles within the party.
They cannot do both. This ultimatum has thrown the affected officials into a dilemma as they weigh their next steps.
Many of these officials were appointed to significant government positions by President William Ruto’s administration over the past year.
For instance, Naomi Shaban was appointed as the Chairperson of the Tobacco Control Board in October 2023, a position she was expected to hold for three years.
Joshua Kutuny, a former Member of Parliament for Cherangany, was appointed as Chairperson of the Kenya Copyright Board (Kecobo), while Nelson Dzuya became a member of the Non-Governmental Organization Coordination Board.
Other officials, such as Angwenyi, were given leadership roles, including Chairperson of the National Heroes Council.
These appointments came as part of President Ruto’s efforts to strengthen his government after the 2022 general elections.
However, this court ruling has now brought these positions under scrutiny, as the officials must either resign from the party or step down from their government roles.
This court decision comes amid increasing tensions within the Jubilee Party, which has been struggling to regain its footing after the 2022 elections.
The party, which once held power under former President Uhuru Kenyatta, has been in turmoil as it seeks to rebuild and stay relevant in the changing political landscape.
Just days before the court ruling, Jubilee leaders David Murathe and Jeremiah Kioni managed to survive an expulsion attempt by a section of the party.
Murathe, a close ally of Uhuru Kenyatta, and Kioni, the Secretary-General, were facing internal party battles but successfully retained their positions.
This legal victory gave the party some stability, but the latest ruling against the National Executive Committee (NEC) members with government appointments adds another layer of uncertainty to Jubilee’s future.
The affected Jubilee officials now face a crucial decision that will shape their political careers. On one hand, they have the opportunity to continue serving in the Kenya Kwanza government, holding powerful roles in various government bodies.
On the other hand, they can remain part of Jubilee’s leadership as the party fights to regain its strength.
With the 30-day deadline quickly approaching, these officials must carefully consider their options, knowing that their choices will have significant implications for both the party and their personal political futures.
0 Comments