Ruto's plan for new broad-based Cabinet and Azimio's options

President William Ruto, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua Nyandarua Governor Ndirangu Badilisha after a church service at Ndogino, Ndaragwa, Nyandarua County on July 14, 2024. [PCS, Standard]

President William Ruto, after dismissing his entire Cabinet, stated that he would reconstitute a broad-based government composed of the political formations and other stakeholders.

He believes such an arrangement can help him address the critical issues in the wake of countrywide protests. 

Political pundits argue that a broad-based government is required at times like this to address grievances arising from Gen Z-led protests.

The young people feel a sense of exclusion or neglect by the current regime. President Ruto hopes that a broad-based government can ensure that diverse voices and concerns are heard and addressed, reducing the feeling of marginalisation.

Political stability is necessary for the growth of any economy.  The inclusion of representatives from different political factions can foster national unity and reduce the likelihood of further unrest.

Economic grievances raised by the Gen Z protesters cannot be ignored. A broad-based government involving young people as part of stakeholders can bring together experts and stakeholders from various sectors to create comprehensive economic policies that address the needs of all citizens, promoting growth and stability needed for economic recovery.

By involving leaders from various ethnic, regional, religious, political, and social groups, a broad-based government can promote social cohesion and national integration. This can help heal divisions and build a shared identity and purpose with lasting social cohesion.

Effective governance demands a government that reflects the diversity of the population in understanding and addressing the complex issues facing our country today. This can draw on a wider range of perspectives and expertise, leading to more informed and balanced decision-making.

A broad-based government can change the international perception and signal to the international community that Kenya is committed to democratic principles and inclusive governance. This can enhance the country's reputation and attract foreign investment and support.

Inclusivity in governance is a fundamental principle of democracy. By reconstituting a broad-based government, President Ruto would be upholding democratic values and ensuring that the government reflects the will and interests of the people.

Involving opposition and other stakeholders in the formation of a broad-based government can help address and resolve underlying historical conflicts. It will create a platform for dialogue and negotiation, reducing the likelihood of future violence and unrest.

By reconstituting a broad-based government, President Ruto can take a significant step towards addressing the underlying causes of the protests and building a more inclusive, stable, and prosperous Kenya.

Whether Azimio should agree to or reject President Ruto's proposal to form a broad-based government depends on several factors and considerations.

Joining a broad-based government can help promote national unity and reconciliation, particularly in a politically polarised environment like Kenya.

In a broad-based government, Azimio can have a say in the formulation and implementation of government policies, ensuring that their supporters' interests and concerns are addressed. This will enhance the opposition's influence in policy-making and legislative processes.

A unified government can work more effectively to address economic and political challenges, potentially leading to better economic policies and stability. Participation of the opposition outfits can reduce political tensions and unrest, contributing to a more stable and peaceful political climate.

Azimio can also push for necessary political and electoral reforms from within the government, potentially leading to a more transparent and fair political system.

However, there are cons to agreeing to join a broad-based government. Joining the government could be seen as compromising Azimio’s principles and political agenda, potentially alienating their political bases.

Azimio might also lose and dilute its distinct identity and become associated with the current administration’s unpopular actions and policies.

There is a risk that Azimio’s influence within the government could be limited, rendering their participation symbolic rather than substantial. Being part of the Kenya Kwanza government could make it harder for Azimio to hold the administration accountable for its actions, as they would share responsibility.

The proposal of a broad-based government could also be a strategic move by President Ruto to weaken the opposition by co-opting its leaders, rather than a genuine attempt at inclusivity.

If Azimio considers agreeing, it will be wise to set clear conditions. There must be specific policy agreements. The opposition coalition should ensure clear agreements on key policies and reforms that they would want to see implemented.

Azimio coalition must consider power-sharing arrangements. The coalition should first negotiate specific roles and responsibilities for its members within the government to ensure meaningful participation.

The opposition outfit must from the onset secure commitments to important political, electoral, and economic reforms with timelines and accountability mechanisms before agreeing to the broad-based government as proposed by President Ruto.

Azimio coalition should also maintain a degree of autonomy to continue advocating its principles and holding the government accountable at all times.

The decision by Azimio to agree or reject the proposal should be based on a careful assessment of the potential benefits and drawbacks, as well as the specific conditions and guarantees that can be negotiated to protect its interests and those of its supporters.