This archive report was first published on 13 May 2020.
President Uhuru Kenyatta's purge of Deputy President William Ruto's allies in the Senate has now shifted its focus to the National Assembly, according to sources.
Just a day after the President kicked out Ruto's allies from plum leadership positions in the Senate, the Nation has learned that the purge is now heading to the National Assembly.
The targeted leaders in the National Assembly include chairman of the Budget and Appropriations Committee Kimani Ichung'wah, Majority Whip Benjamin Washiali, and his deputy Cecily Mbarire.
It is still unclear whether Majority Leader Aden Duale, a close ally of Dr Ruto, will also face the axe.
Close allies of Mr Kenyatta have indicated that Mr Duale might survive as he is seen as moderate in his comments at public rallies or on the floor of the House.
Names that have been floated to replace the defiant allies of Dr Ruto include Navakholo MP Emmanuel Wangwe, who is likely to replace Mr Washiali, with Murang'a MP Sabina Chege taking over from Ms Mbarire as Kipipiri MP Amos Kimunya lands Mr Ichung'wah's seat.
Mr Ichung'wah's ouster from the powerful committee will be bloodless as only a majority of the committee members are needed to remove him.
Jubilee Party secretary-general Raphael Tuju confirmed that the purge is headed for the National Assembly, saying, 'Yes, it is headed there, but we are still monitoring the behaviour of the leaders. We will not tolerate deviant behaviour.'
Jubilee Party vice-chairman David Murathe also confirmed that the purge is definitely heading to the National Assembly, terming it a 'party cleaning.'
He pointed out that Article 13 of the party's constitution is clear on the disciplinary measures against 'a member of the National Assembly or Senate who without justification opposes party positions and policy in Parliament.'
