The warmth that Azimio MPs enjoyed in the “government seats” had suddenly evaporated

The warmth that Azimio MPs enjoyed in the “government seats” had suddenly evaporated As previously reported, a dispute has erupted. After enjoying the “warmth” of majority seats for two days, Azimio*1 MPs agreed to resign from those seats on Wednesday. Recently, tensions escalated in the Kenya National Assembly when Speaker of Parliament Moses Wetangula declared the Kenya Kwanza*2 coalition the majority party, triggering a protest strike by Azimio MPs. The recent parliamentary session highlighted ongoing disputes regarding the party’s majority status following a Supreme Court ruling that suggested Azimio had the majority before several MPs defected to Kenya Kwanza. Azimio members expressed their disapproval of Wetangula’s ruling and announced plans for further action against it. This situation reflects the broader political dynamics in Kenya, where coalition politics plays a crucial role in governing and legislative processes. However, led by MP for Suba North Millie Odhiambo, MPs stated that while they accepted Wetang'ula's decision, they did not agree with it.   *1 - Azimio la Umoja is a major political alliance in Kenya predominantly led by Raila Odinga. It includes several parties such as the Orange Democratic Movement, Jubilee Party, NARC–Kenya and KANU.  *2 - Kenya Kwanza, a political alliance led by President William Ruto, was recently declared the majority party in the National Assembly by Speaker of Parliament Moses Wetang'ula. This declaration dated February 12, 2025 states that Kenya Kwanza has 165 seats while Azimio has 154 seats. This decision was taken despite a recent Supreme Court ruling that questioned Wetang'ula's authority to make such a decision, leading to protests from Azimio MPs who are planning further legal action against the decision.