Azimio is the majority in parliament. Court Rules
A three-judge bench has declared the decision of National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula, determining that Kenya Kwanza holds the majority in Parliament, null and void.
Following the 2022 general elections, a dispute arose regarding which coalition held the majority.
On October 6, 2022, National Assembly Speaker Wetang’ula declared the Kenya Kwanza Coalition the majority party. Members of the Azimio la Umoja One Kenya Coalition contested this decision, arguing that they had more members and should be recognised as the majority.
In his ruling, Wetang’ula stated that, after considering post-election agreements, Kenya Kwanza had 179 members, while the Azimio la Umoja One Kenya coalition had 157.
Wetang’ula emphasised that coalitions are dynamic, noting, “Coalitions are not cast in stone and are an evolving arrangement that can occur both before and after the elections.”
He further observed that several parties initially aligned with Azimio la Umoja had shifted allegiance to Kenya Kwanza post-election.
Wetang’ula remarked, “Some members alleged coercion and duress while entering into agreements with one of the coalitions. This, if true, is a serious affront to the democratic rights and freedoms that we enjoy as citizens of this country.”
However, 12 Kenyans filed a petition in court, arguing that the Azimio Coalition held the majority with 171 MPs while the Kenya Kwanza Coalition had 156 legislators.
They filed a petition challenging the Speaker’s declaration, asserting that it violated the Constitution and the Standing Orders of the National Assembly.
Three judges, Justice Jairus Ngaah (presiding), Justice John Mugwimi Chigiti, and Justice Mugambi, agreed, saying Wetang’ula lacked sufficient evidence to make the determination.
