Deputy President Kithure Kindiki is navigating a challenging political landscape within President William Ruto's administration as his influence appears to be waning. Once regarded as a key figure, Kindiki now faces growing isolation amid public criticism and a notable absence of support from the president.
This shift follows a presidential directive transferring Kindiki’s intergovernmental coordination responsibilities to Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi. The Head of Public Service, Felix Koskei, communicated the decision, emphasizing Kindiki's broad constitutional roles while assigning the implementation of the Intergovernmental Relations Act to Mudavadi.
Despite the changes, Kindiki has publicly dismissed rumors of his political decline, asserting his commitment to the government and likening his role to building a house that cannot be abandoned.
Political Realignments and ODM Divisions
Meanwhile, the opposition Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) is experiencing internal fractures. Senior leaders, including National Assembly Minority Whip Millie Odhiambo, have highlighted exclusion of key members from important meetings, signaling potential weakening ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Leaders such as Otiende Amollo, Ruth Odinga, and Martin Owino have reportedly been sidelined, raising concerns about party unity and the risk of further defections.
Public Transport Reforms Under Consideration
Separately, lawmakers are advancing a bill to empower the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) to regulate matatu fares. The proposed NTSA (Amendment) Bill, 2023, aims to introduce fare guidelines to curb arbitrary price hikes that burden commuters, a move supported by several MPs as necessary for fairness and predictability in public transport.
The bill’s progress may trigger vigorous debate, given past resistance from both parliamentarians and matatu operators.
