A proposal to establish an Office of the Leader of Opposition, with two deputies, has been rejected by MPs. The proposal, initially presented by President William Ruto and later backed by the National Dialogue Committee, was intended to provide an official role and funding for opposition figures, including Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, after Raila Odinga shifted focus to the African Union.
However, the Justice and Legal Affairs Committee, led by Tharaka MP Gitonga Murugara, dismissed the plan, citing a lack of a clear institutional framework. They argued that it was unclear if the office would be classified as a public or state office and which branch of government it would fall under.
The committee suggested that a parliamentary system might be more stable and inclusive, advocating for a review of Kenya’s current governance model. Some viewed the proposal as an attempt to accommodate Azimio leaders, including Kalonzo, with a government role.
The committee stressed that creating such an office would alter parliamentary functions and would require a referendum. The recommendation to establish this position came after President Ruto, facing opposition criticism post-election, suggested amending the constitution to create a structured role for those who come second in presidential races, aiming to reduce political tension.
Despite the National Dialogue Committee’s support, the proposal was ultimately blocked by MPs, who argue that the minority leader already serves as the de facto opposition leader in Parliament.
