Kenya’s Ruling Jubilee Divided Over Graft Allegations

Various graft accusations are becoming a source of tension and division within Kenya’s ruling Jubilee Party.

Allies of Deputy President William Ruto appear to be concerned that President Kenyatta may look to secure an extension to his stay in office via a referendum. Some MPs have also warned that the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) may be being used for political purposes.  

Kimilili MP Didmus Barasa has described the war on graft as a witch-hunt, driven by those who are seeking to discredit Ruto’s plans to contest the next elections due in 2022.

Barasa has also challenged President Kenyatta on the recent graft allegations, stating "If President Kenyatta believes that corruption is rampant in his government then he ought to dissolve government and call for a fresh election so as to weed out leaders perceived to be corrupt."

MP for Kapsaret Oscar Sudi warned, "The work that is being done by Kinoti [head of the DCI]  in the name of fighting corruption is not genuine. He is being used as a pawn in the alleged war against corruption. If he is not careful, he will be used and dumped the same way the former Electoral Commission of Kenya chairman Samuel Kivuitu was treated."