Former Meru governor Kiraitu Murungi has stepped down from his position as the leader of the Devolution Empowerment Party (DEP), citing internal challenges within the party.
His resignation follows a contentious dispute with DEP's secretary-general, Mugambi Imanyara, who contested Murungi's appointment as party leader in a gazette notice dated May 9, 2024.
Imanyara argued that Murungi, currently serving as chairman of the National Oil Corporation (NOC) board and a commissioner at the Law Reform Commission, should not concurrently hold a political party leadership role.
In response, Murungi labeled Imanyara's legal threats as baseless and aimed at disrupting the party's operations. He emphasized that board members and chairpersons of state corporations are not considered full-time public servants under Kenyan law.
Murungi accused Imanyara of attempting to sow confusion and destabilize the party following his suspension by the National Executive Committee for alleged misconduct and attempts to usurp party structures.
Acknowledging the ongoing factionalism within DEP, Murungi expressed his decision to resign as chairman to ensure the party's smooth operation, stating his intention to continue supporting the party as an ordinary member. Meanwhile, DEP's Meru branch secretary, Alhaji Mwendia, pledged to oust Imanyara from his position, labeling him as a destabilizing force within the party.
The dispute between Murungi and Imanyara dates back to internal disagreements over party leadership and disciplinary actions, including the suspension and reinstatement of Imanyara as secretary-general. The fallout intensified further with divisions over political strategies and alliances, particularly concerning local governance issues in Meru County.
In conclusion, Murungi's resignation marks a significant development in DEP's internal dynamics, highlighting ongoing challenges and political maneuvering within the party ahead of future electoral cycles.
Source (https://nation.africa/kenya/counties/meru/kiraitu-murungi-resigns-from-his-party-position-4674520)