BUSIA, Kenya, Mar 16 – Teso South MP Mary Emase has distanced herself from her colleagues in the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA), stating that the broad-based government arrangement is primarily a power-sharing deal meant to accommodate opposition leaders seeking top positions in government.
Her comments follow her loss of the Vice-Chair position in the Budget Committee, a consequence of the March 7 political reshuffle.
“We must put an end to this deceitful politics, where opposition leaders are benefiting more than those who fought for the Kenya Kwanza agenda. What manifesto are they following if it’s not a hunger for power?” Emase stated.
The MP argued that the unrest within the government stems from the inclusion of opposition figures with a history of creating political instability, disrupting government functions, and hindering development while pursuing their own political agendas.
Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga has been forced to defend his cooperation agreement with President Ruto, amid accusations of betraying his supporters.
Raila clarified that it was President Ruto who initiated the talks, not the other way around.
“I have not gone to Ruto; William came to me. My position hasn’t changed. I’ve been fighting for the rights of all Kenyans since I was born,” Raila explained.
He added that while elections are due in 2027, the priority should be alleviating the suffering of the people in the meantime.
Raila emphasized that his collaboration with Ruto is aimed at holding the government accountable and addressing the nation’s challenges, insisting that his involvement is based on addressing issues rather than seeking political gain.
“We were on the streets fighting for Kenyans, demanding action on rising living costs, calling for the opening of the IEBC server, and addressing corruption and tribalism. Didn’t we raise these issues, even setting up the NADCO report committee to tackle them?” Raila said.