Ruto Loses Key Ally as Party Breaks Away From Kenya Kwanza

Photo collage of President William Ruto and DEP leader Kiraitu Murungi

The Devolution Empowerment Party (DEP), the Mbus Party, has formally declared its independence from President William Ruto’s Kenya Kwanza coalition. 

DEP leaders accuse the Kenya Kwanza government of sidelining the party and neglecting its interests since the 2022 polls.
They also accused the government of failing to address issues that concern ordinary Kenyans.

Party leader Kiraitu Murungi made the announcement on Friday, April 25, signaling fresh political realignment in the Mt. Kenya East region.

Speaking during a press briefing, Murungi stressed that the party has no formal coalition agreement with any political outfit, including Ruto’s United Democratic Alliance (UDA). 

“The Bus Party is non-aligned. The Bus Party is autonomous. The Bus Party is independent,” Murungi said.

President William Ruto with Kiraitu Murungi

Murungi, a former Meru governor, clarified that the party had not signed any pre-election or post-election coalition deals registered with the Registrar of Political Parties. 

DEP Chairman Lenny Kivuti supported this position, noting that although they occasionally collaborate with other parties, no formal agreements exist.

The defection follows months of rising tension and makes the Kenya Kwanza camp in Mt. Kenya East even more politically charged.

Former Cabinet Secretary for Agriculture Mithika Linturi recently met former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua to discuss how to construct a new political party.

At the same time, Peter Munya, another former Agriculture CS, announced plans to contest the Meru governorship in 2027 for his part.

DEP, in the future, plans to challenge the next by-election in Mbeere North and is eyeing more participation in the 2027 General Election.

DEP also has its sights on recruiting members, political education, and leadership.