Politics

Mwengi Mutuse: The Political Maverick or Master of Contradiction?

Mwengi Mutuse is a politician who is marked by bold moves and notable contradictions. His effort to impeach Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has thrust him into the national spotlight as a vocal critic of government misconduct. Yet, his backing of the controversial Finance Bill 2024, which imposed heavy financial burdens on ordinary Kenyans, casts doubt on his true commitment to public welfare and accountability.

Published

2 weeks ago

October 3, 2024

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Mwengi Mutuse’s political moves mirror a broader pattern in Kenyan politics, where shifting alliances and fluid stances on key issues are common. His journey highlights the complexities of governance in Kenya, where politicians often balance the interests of the public with the need to safeguard their own political ambitions.

:Hon. Mwengi Mutuse has swiftly risen to prominence in Kenya’s political landscape with his audacious move to table an impeachment motion against Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua in 2024. However, this same MP, who presents himself as a crusader for accountability, also backed the controversial Finance Bill 2024, which was deemed anti-people and sparked public outrage. This contradiction—championing public integrity while supporting a bill that burdened ordinary citizens—raises questions about Mutuse’s political integrity and long-term ambitions. Is he a true reformer or another player in Kenya’s unpredictable political chess game?

By Charles Wachira

In a country where politics often follows the unpredictable rhythm of shifting alliances and calculated moves, Hon. Mwengi Mutuse’s decision to table an impeachment motion against Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua grabbed national attention in 2024. The first-term MP for Kibwezi West, Mutuse, rose quickly through Kenya’s political ranks, cementing himself as a bold and daring voice. However, the same MP who positioned himself as a reformer in challenging Deputy President Gachagua was also a key supporter of the controversial Finance Bill 2024—an unpopular piece of legislation that sparked protests and was labeled as “anti-people” by its critics.

This paradox of championing both public accountability and supporting a bill that heavily taxed ordinary Kenyans raises the question: What does Mutuse truly stand for? Is he a principled politician, or does he represent the same contradictions that have long characterized Kenyan politics?

A Rising Star with Complications

Hon. Mwengi Mutuse’s political journey is impressive. Elected to Parliament in 2022 under the Maendeleo Chap Chap party, Mutuse quickly became known for his legal expertise and bold stance on governance issues. Prior to his national political career, he worked as Chief of Staff to Machakos Governor Alfred Mutua, honing his understanding of public administration and county-level politics.

However, his image as a champion of accountability was tarnished when he threw his support behind the Finance Bill 2024, a deeply controversial piece of legislation that proposed increased taxes on fuel and basic commodities. Despite public outcry and widespread protests, Mutuse voted in favor of the bill, aligning himself with the government’s stance, which was largely seen as punishing the already economically strained population.

The bill sparked massive opposition across the country, and many viewed it as detrimental to the common mwananchi (citizen). Ironically, Mutuse, who had presented himself as an advocate for the people’s interests, supported the bill, contributing to the growing economic burden on ordinary Kenyans. This raised eyebrows and sowed doubt about his commitment to fighting for the average citizen’s welfare.

Eventually, President William Ruto, responding to public dissatisfaction and political pressure, subtly shelved the Finance Bill. But by then, the damage to Mutuse’s image had been done. This created a perception that the MP was willing to toe the government line, even at the expense of public interest.

A Contradictory Move: The Impeachment of Gachagua

In the wake of his controversial vote for the Finance Bill, Mutuse’s bold decision to table an impeachment motion against Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua appeared to some as an attempt at political redemption. Mutuse accused Gachagua of gross misconduct, violation of the Constitution, and making inflammatory statements that threatened national unity. The motion also touched on allegations of corruption surrounding Gachagua, echoing the frustrations of a public tired of scandals in high office.

However, Mutuse’s impeachment motion has been met with skepticism. How can a politician who supported a bill widely seen as oppressive to the public now claim to be fighting for accountability and good governance? Critics argue that the impeachment bid may be less about principles and more about opportunism. In challenging a powerful figure like Gachagua, Mutuse has perhaps calculated that aligning himself with those opposing Gachagua within the political establishment could raise his own profile and build alliances for the future.

A Calculated Gamble or Genuine Concern?

While Mutuse’s impeachment motion is unlikely to succeed due to Gachagua’s strong backing within government ranks, the move does reveal his strategic thinking. By positioning himself against the Deputy President, Mutuse casts himself as a bold challenger to the establishment. Yet, his actions regarding the Finance Bill undermine the narrative that he is a politician of integrity and accountability.

This duality—being both a supporter of policies that hurt the public and a critic of high-level corruption—makes it difficult to pin down Mutuse’s political philosophy. Is he driven by genuine concern for the state of governance, or is he merely playing the political chess game, maneuvering for personal gain and future influence?

The impeachment motion could also be seen as a response to growing discontent among opposition supporters who view Gachagua as a divisive figure. In publicly challenging him, Mutuse may hope to tap into the frustrations of Kenyans who feel left out by the ruling Kenya Kwanza coalition. However, many Kenyans remain wary of politicians who seem to switch their positions when it suits them.

The Broader Implications for Kenyan Politics

Mwengi Mutuse’s political maneuvering reflects a broader trend in Kenyan politics, where alliances shift quickly, and positions on key issues can be fluid. His story underscores the complex nature of governance in Kenya, where politicians often find themselves walking a fine line between serving the public and protecting their own political careers.

For many observers, Mutuse’s impeachment motion will be remembered not for its legal or constitutional implications but as a reflection of the contradictions within Kenya’s political system. On one hand, he has shown the courage to take on the Deputy President, a move that undoubtedly raised his national profile. On the other hand, his support of the Finance Bill demonstrates that he is not immune to the pressures of political expediency.

In the eyes of his critics, Mutuse is not the principled reformer he claims to be. The impeachment motion, they argue, is less about safeguarding the Constitution and more about gaining political mileage. Yet for his supporters, Mutuse remains a fresh face in Kenyan politics, someone who, despite his missteps, has shown the willingness to challenge the powers that be.

Conclusion

Hon. Mwengi Mutuse is a politician defined by both bold action and troubling contradictions. His attempt to impeach Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua places him in the spotlight as a vocal critic of government misconduct. However, his support for the Finance Bill 2024, which placed significant burdens on ordinary Kenyans, raises doubts about his commitment to public welfare and accountability.

As Mutuse navigates the turbulent waters of Kenyan politics, his ability to reconcile these contradictions will likely determine his future success. Whether he emerges as a true reformer or is remembered as just another politician playing the system remains to be seen. But one thing is clear: Mwengi Mutuse is a figure to watch as Kenya continues to grapple with the complex balance of power, governance, and public accountability.

Keywords:Mwengi Mutuse impeachment motion:Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua:Kenya Finance Bill 2024:Kenyan political contradictions:Public accountability in Kenya politics

Politics

Kenya’s Presidents and Deputies: History of Conflicts and Impeachment

Amid the novelty of the impeachment process, it’s easy to forget that it is the norm for Kenyan presidents to fall out with their deputies.

Published

1 day ago

October 15, 2024

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Historically, presidents have fired their deputies. But the adoption of a new constitution in 2010, saw the introduction of a process for impeachment – for both the president and the deputy – that’s run by the legislature. This is the first time it’s been used.

By Gabrielle Lynch, Professor of Comparative Politics, University of Warwick

Initially published @ https://theconversation.com/

The process of removing Kenya’s deputy president Rigathi Gachagua is part of a long history, dating back to independence, of fallouts between the president and his deputy. The difference this time around is the process.

On 8 October 2024, members of Kenya’s national assembly voted to impeach Gachagua on grounds that included corruption, insubordination and ethnically divisive politics. The case now moves to the senate where members will hear the charges – and Gachagua’s defence – and vote.

If at least two-thirds of senate accept the charges, and Gachagua’s legal challenges fail, then Gachagua will make history as Kenya’s first deputy leader to be impeached.

So far, President William Ruto has stayed silent on the matter, but the process would not be proceeding without his blessing.

Amid the novelty of the impeachment process, it’s easy to forget that it is the norm for Kenyan presidents to fall out with their deputies. As a political scientist interested in Kenya’s ethnic politics and democratisation, I argue that this is because of how deputies are selected in the first place.

Deputies are initially selected largely on pragmatic grounds as people who bring something useful to a political alliance. This could be resources, a support base or a reputation for being a good technocrat or administrator.

They’re not usually people with whom the president has a strong and continuous personal relationship or someone with whom they share a clear political ideology. Neither are they usually someone who has made their way up through a political party.

This has brought about a long history of tensions and fallout between Kenya’s presidents and their deputies.

History of fallouts

Independent Kenya’s first vice president, Oginga Odinga, saw his ministerial portfolio gradually reduced by President Jomo Kenyatta. Kenyatta then replaced Odinga as vice president of the ruling Kenya African National Union (Kanu) in 1966 further undermining his powers. Soon after, Odinga joined the opposition Kenya’s People’s Union.

His successor, Joseph Murumbi, resigned within months. The official reason given was ill health, but it is widely believed that Murumbi was troubled by corruption and authoritarianism within the Kenyatta regime.

Kenya’s second president, Daniel arap Moi, elected Mwai Kibaki as his first deputy. Kibaki was dropped after a decade. He went on to form an opposition party as soon as Kenya shifted to multi-party politics in 1992.

Moi’s second vice president, Josephat Karanja, resigned after a year to avoid a vote of no confidence for allegedly plotting to overthrow the government.

Moi’s third deputy, George Saitoti was sidelined to pave way for Uhuru Kenyatta’s nomination as the party flagbearer in 2002. Moi’s final deputy, Musalia Mudavadi, fell with the rest of the Kanu government in the 2002 elections.

As Kenya’s third president, Kibaki similarly oversaw a regular change of guard. His first deputy, Michael Wamalwa, died after a few months in office. His second, Moody Awori, lost his seat in the 2007 election.

Kibaki’s third deputy, Kalonzo Musyoka, joined the president during Kenya’s post-election violence of 2007-08. He left at the end of his term in 2013 to run with Raila Odinga in the 2013, 2017 and 2022 presidential elections.

Kenya’s fourth president, Uhuru Kenyatta, was the only leader to have the same deputy, William Ruto, for his full term as president – from 2013 to 2022. However, relations between Kenyatta and Ruto were hardly rosy. The two fell out after the 2017 elections as Kenyatta teamed up with long-standing opposition leader, Raila Odinga. Ruto beat Odinga, Kenyatta’s favoured candidate in the 2022 elections.

Lessons to learn

Because deputies are selected for their practical value, the person who made a good deputy at one point in time can come to be seen as a liability or threat as the political context changes.

For example, at independence, Oginga Odinga made an excellent ally for Jomo Kenyatta. He had some resources and was a proven mobiliser. He brought a support base. However, within a few years, Odinga became a problem for the president as a more radical faction within the ruling party coalesced around him.

Similarly, Ruto made an excellent ally for Uhuru Kenyatta when they both faced charges for crimes against humanity at the International Criminal Court. The two fell out once Kenyatta had won his second and final term, and Kenyatta turned to his succession.

Gachagua was useful to Ruto in 2022. He had personal wealth, was an effective mobiliser and hailed from central Kenya where the election looked to be won or lost. However, once elected, Gachagua’s populist statements and reputation for ethnic bias became more of a liability.

Second, as contexts change, someone else can soon come to be seen as more useful as second in command.

For Jomo Kenyatta, Moi had shown his utility and loyalty during the “little general elections” of 1966, which effectively sidelined the Kenya People’s Union and Oginga Odinga.

Kithure Kindiki, Kenya’s interior cabinet secretary, is the current frontrunner to replace Gachagua. He is seen as better able to negotiate with the international community, especially during a critical economic period for Kenya as it seeks new International Monetary Fund loans.

Third, being the country’s vice or deputy president comes with a lot of opportunities to network. These interactions have often led individuals to be seen as a growing threat, or as actively plotting against the president. They may also be seen as a future challenger.

History has shown that there is no ideal way of dealing with such a potential challenger, leading subsequent presidents to try different approaches.

Current context

Ruto and Gachagua have clearly fallen out. Their differences became apparent soon after the 2022 elections. However, they came into sharp relief in the face of anti-tax protests in June 2024. There were subsequent allegations that Gachagua and some of his allies had helped to finance the protests.

The question, therefore, isn’t why they have fallen out but why Gachagua is being impeached now.

Ultimately the answer to this can only be known by a few individuals. But perhaps an indication of the answer lies in the emotions the fallout has stirred: a desire to distract the public and show that the government is taking action to deal with Kenya’s ongoing economic crisis. There may also be a desire to undercut Gachagua before he can build national networks.

Ruto has the numbers in the senate to see the impeachment process through. But this is a dangerous game. Those sidelined have a habit of coming back to haunt their former allies.

At the moment, most Kenyans are supportive of the impeachment process, but many also feel that Gachagua is being unfairly targeted especially in central Kenya, where a majority oppose the process.

While a successful impeachment might see Gachagua barred from holding public office, this wouldn’t necessarily mean an end to his career as an effective political mobiliser.

The next few months – and the narratives that emerge about why Ruto and Gachagua fell out – will be critical in determining both their futures.

Politics

Kenya Secures UN Human Rights Council Seat Amid Domestic Concerns

The result of this bid has the potential to either spark meaningful change or exacerbate tensions between the government and civil society. Should Kenya effectively utilize its position to tackle its internal challenges, it could realize its goal of becoming a leader in global human rights advocacy. On the other hand, if it falls short, doubts may arise regarding the sincerity of its commitment to human rights, both within the country and on the international stage.

Published

1 week ago

October 9, 2024

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Kenya's successful bid for a seat on the UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC) aligns with a wider strategy to bolster its international influence and leadership in advocating for human rights, especially in the East African region. Nevertheless, civil society groups in Kenya have voiced their concerns, contending that the country's human rights record raises significant doubts about its appropriateness for this role.

: Kenya’s recent election to the United Nations Human Rights Council for the 2025-2027 term has sparked significant debate, with civil society organizations expressing strong opposition due to the country’s troubling human rights record. While the Kenyan government sees the council seat as an opportunity to enhance its global influence and advocate for African interests, critics argue that its internal challenges, including police brutality and shrinking civic space, undermine its credibility in human rights advocacy. This development raises critical questions about the balance between Kenya’s international ambitions and the urgent need for domestic reforms.

By Charles Wachira

On October 9, 2024, Kenya was elected as one of the 18 members of the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) for the 2025-2027 term, a decision welcomed by the government but met with significant skepticism from civil society organizations. This move highlights a complex interplay between Kenya’s aspirations on the global stage and the serious human rights challenges it faces domestically.

Aspirations Versus Reality

Kenya’s successful bid to join the UNHRC is part of a broader strategy to enhance its international influence and leadership in promoting human rights, particularly in the East African region. However, civil society groups in Kenya have expressed their discontent, arguing that the nation’s track record on human rights raises serious questions about its suitability for such a role.

Critics point to ongoing issues like police brutality, extrajudicial killings, and the repression of dissenting voices, which have marred Kenya’s human rights landscape. Reports from reputable watch dogs such as Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International have highlighted these concerns, asserting that the Kenyan government has failed to hold security forces accountable for their actions during political unrest.

The Case Against Kenya’s Bid

Civil society organizations have vehemently opposed Kenya’s UNHRC seat bid, arguing that the country’s human rights record disqualifies it from taking a leading role in global human rights advocacy. Key concerns include:

Freedom of Expression: There has been a noted crackdown on dissent and freedom of expression in Kenya. Activists have documented cases of harassment, intimidation, and arbitrary arrests of journalists and human rights defenders. This environment contradicts the principles of open discourse and accountability that the UNHRC is supposed to uphold.
Shrinking Civic Space: The Kenyan government has increasingly restricted the operations of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and civil society groups. These restrictions, perceived as government efforts to stifle criticism, have raised alarms about the viability of civil society in holding the government accountable.
Gender Equality and Minority Rights: Despite some progress, issues surrounding gender equality and the rights of marginalized communities remain pressing concerns. The failure to implement the two-thirds gender rule and ongoing discrimination against LGBTQ+ individuals highlight the gaps in Kenya’s human rights commitments.
Corruption: Widespread corruption within the government undermines the protection of citizens’ rights and erodes trust in government institutions. Activists argue that until corruption is addressed, Kenya lacks the credibility to advocate for human rights internationally.

The Benefits of UNHRC Membership

Despite the criticism, the Kenyan government views its election to the UNHRC as a significant achievement with various potential benefits:

Enhanced Diplomatic Influence: Being part of the UNHRC provides Kenya with a platform to shape global human rights policies, particularly those affecting Africa. This could enhance its standing as a key diplomatic player on the continent.
Advancing African Interests: A seat on the council allows Kenya to represent and advocate for human rights issues pertinent to Africa, such as post-conflict reconstruction and justice for victims of war crimes.
Reinforcing Global Commitments: Holding a seat showcases Kenya’s commitment to multilateralism and global governance. It presents an opportunity to engage with the international community on human rights issues.
Economic and Developmental Partnerships: Aligning with global human rights standards can attract development aid and investments from international partners who prioritize governance in their foreign policy.
Incentivizing Domestic Reforms: Some advocates suggest that international scrutiny from UNHRC membership could pressure the Kenyan government to address its domestic human rights challenges, potentially leading to significant reforms.

Looking Ahead: A Path to Reconciliation?

Kenya’s election to the UNHRC has ignited a vital discussion about the country’s human rights challenges versus its global aspirations. As the government prepares to assume its responsibilities, the significant opposition from civil society cannot be overlooked.

The outcome of this bid could serve as a catalyst for positive change or deepen the rift between the government and civil society. If Kenya can leverage its position to address its internal issues, it may fulfill its ambition of becoming a leader in global human rights advocacy. Conversely, failure to do so may raise questions about the credibility of its commitment to human rights, both domestically and internationally.

Ultimately, the journey ahead will require balancing national interests with the urgent need for reforms that align with the principles of human rights that Kenya is now expected to champion on the global stage. As Kenya embarks on this new chapter, the hopes of its civil society for meaningful change hang in the balance.

Keywords:Kenya:UN Human Rights Council:Civil Society:Human Rights Record:Global Advocacy

Politics

Kenya Pushes Economic Growth with $20M Holistic Productive Capacities Programme by UNCTAD

In 2025, Kenya will unveil the HPCDP, a visionary 10-year plan aimed at boosting economic diversification, industrialization, infrastructure, and private sector expansion. Its goal is to shift Kenya’s economy from low-productivity sectors to innovative, high-value industries.

Published

5 days ago

October 11, 2024

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Musalia Mudavadi, Kenya's Prime Cabinet Secretary: This initiative aims to reshape Kenya’s economic landscape and pave the way for long-term sustainable growth

: Kenya launches a $20M Holistic Productive Capacities Programme with UNCTAD to drive economic growth, boost diversification, industrialization, and private sector empowerment.

By Charles Wachira

Kenya held consultations with key development partners on October 3, 2024, to discuss the implementation of its ambitious Holistic Productive Capacities Development Programme (HPCDP), designed by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD).

This initiative aims to reshape Kenya’s economic landscape and pave the way for long-term sustainable growth.

Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, along with other senior government officials, led discussions with donors, UN representatives, the private sector, and key stakeholders.

The dialogue opened a new chapter in Kenya’s drive toward economic transformation.

“This programme is a turning point for Kenya’s future,” remarked Paul Akiwumi, UNCTAD’s Director for Africa, Least Developed Countries, and Special Programmes.

“It’s about laying the groundwork for a stronger economy by empowering people, businesses, and institutions to innovate, compete, and thrive.”

A New Economic Paradigm With Kenya’s past commodity-driven growth models proving insufficient to ensure inclusive and sustainable development, the HPCDP comes at a critical time.

Despite achieving growth rates exceeding 5% over the 15 years leading up to the COVID-19 pandemic, the country continues to face challenges, with poverty and economic vulnerability still widespread. Kenya’s Vision 2030 hinges on bridging the country’s productive capacities gap.

The consultations focused on how this programme will address core issues, such as underdeveloped industrialization and vulnerability to economic shocks, that have held back poverty reduction and job creation.

The Holistic Productive Capacities Development Programme The HPCDP, a bold 10-year initiative set to launch in 2025, is designed to enhance economic diversification, industrialization, infrastructure, and private sector growth.

The programme aims to transform Kenya from an economy reliant on low-productivity sectors to one driven by innovation and high-value industries.

Five key pillars will drive the programme:

Economic diversification and value addition Infrastructure development and environmental sustainability ICT for digital transformation Private sector growth and empowerment Skills development and policy coordination Securing Funding and Strategic Focus The consultations aimed to secure $20 million in funding over the next decade to support these transformative goals.

Discussions centered on how Kenya can harness its strengths in agriculture, manufacturing, and technology while aligning with the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) to enhance its global competitiveness.

The Role of the Private Sector At the heart of the HPCDP is private sector empowerment. The programme focuses on supporting micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), improving the business environment, and attracting both domestic and foreign investment.

By leveraging Kenya’s rapid infrastructure developments in transport, logistics, and energy, the country aims to become a regional hub for manufacturing and value-added processing.

A Collaborative Effort UNCTAD’s expertise in trade, investment, and technology for sustainable development will be central to the success of this initiative. A high-level steering committee and technical task force will oversee the programme’s implementation, ensuring seamless coordination and effective execution.

Looking Forward The October 3, 2024, consultations mark a significant step forward in Kenya’s efforts to achieve its Vision 2030 goals and transform its economy into one that thrives on innovation and productivity. With robust international collaboration and a clear strategy, Kenya is positioning itself for a future of sustainable growth and prosperity.

About UNCTAD: The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) is committed to promoting inclusive and sustainable development through trade and investment. With a broad membership, it empowers countries to use trade for economic growth and development.

Keywords:Kenya economic growth: Holistic Productive Capacities Programme: UNCTAD partnership Kenya: Industrialization and diversification: Private sector empowerment Kenya