The President is set to address a special joint sitting of the National Assembly and the Senate on April 4 and he is expected to highlight this government’s achievements in the past year.
His exceptional performance in the fight against corruption, peace, and stability after his handshake with Raila are likely to dominate his address.
Ruto ally Benjamin Washiali, the National Assembly Chief Whip, said Jubilee’s troubles have been fuelled by the handshake deal between Uhuru and Raila.
“The handshake brought a lot of stability in the country. However, when it was transformed into the fight against corruption, it has become a poisoned chalice targeting one person,” the Mumias East MP said.
When Jubilee was formed, its officials claimed the party would maintain its grip on power beyond 2032. Ruto’s lieutenants want assurance from the President that the ongoing war against corruption is not choreographed to cut the DP down to size.
Those who spoke on condition of anonymity for fear of reprisals said they would also protest against what they believe are instructions to the DCI to target specific projects with huge political benefits to Ruto.
We are seeing a certain script being directed at hurting the DP’s fortunes. It is no secret and we want to have a sit-down with the President. The politician said they want meeting held before next Thursday when Uhuru is to deliver the State of the Nation Address.
MP Ngunjiri said a Parliamentary Group (PG) meeting is long overdue. “I appeal to the President that he should call us for a meeting to deal with burning issues in our minds. Jubilee is burning and we can’t sit back and watch,” he said.
A PG that had already planned for July 3, 2018, was called off by the President at the last minute under unclear circumstances. Nominated Senator Isaac Mwaura, a strong supporter of President Kenyatta, also backed the calls for a PG to “quell rumour mongering and petty gossip”. “The party is clearly divided right down the middle and if this [PG] can help, then it a welcome move,” he said.