This archive report was first published on 17 June 2020.
On June 17, 2020, Laikipia Woman Representative Catherine Waruguru received a letter from Majority Chief Whip Emmanuel Wangwe informing her of her expulsion from the National Assembly's Members Services and Facilities Committee.
Waruguru, who was serving as vice chairperson of the committee, had been a key supporter of Deputy President William Ruto. However, in a surprising move, she met with Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader Raila Odinga on June 9, 2020, sparking mixed reactions among Kenyans.
Waruguru's decision to switch allegiance from Ruto's camp has been met with criticism from some quarters, with many questioning her motives. The meeting with Odinga was attended by National Assembly Minority Whip Junet Mohamed, further fueling speculation about Waruguru's intentions.
As a member of the departmental committee on lands, Waruguru's removal from the Members Services and Facilities Committee is seen as a significant blow to her political career.
Waruguru had stated that she changed her tact to work with the government, adding that she met with Odinga to discuss relevant issues of national importance.
