DP and Opposition Leader Advance Talks on Constitutional Reforms

Kenyan Deputy President William Ruto and leader of the opposition ODM Raila Odinga have both agreed to proposals that Cabinet Secretaries should sit in Parliament. If adopted the President would likely pick some or all members of Cabinet from Parliament, with Cabinet Secretaries opened up to questions from MPs. This is in contrast to the current set up in which the President is prevented from appointing MPs to Cabinet. 

The agreement comes as Kenya continues to negotiate constitutional reforms to improve governance and accountability. However, there is still a difference of opinion as to how the reform could work, with Odinga expressing a preference for a system in which ministers are appointed from parliament, while Ruto supporting a set up in which members of the Cabinet are appointed ex-officio members of Parliament.

The two leaders also remain at odds regarding a number of other options for reform, including proposals for a parliamentary system of government. Both are seen as potential contenders to succeed President Kenyatta in 2022.