Nakuru MCAs kick out Majority Leader, citing sabotage

Nakuru county Assembly Majority Leader Alex Langat during a past press conference in Nakuru. [File, Standard]

A supremacy battle is brewing at the Nakuru County Assembly following the decision by Ward Reps to oust Leader of Majority Alex Langat, a close ally of Governor Susan Kihika.

In changes announced by Deputy Speaker Joseph Ngware, the party replaced Langat with William Mutai of Keringet Ward after resolutions from a September 9, 2024 meeting.

"Members present at the meeting unanimously voted to remove Alex Langat from the position of Majority Leader. 31 members present signed in support of this decision," Ngware announced.

Among the grounds cited by the members include Langat's failure to convene meetings for ruling party MCAs for the last two years.

"This has denied members a platform to discuss matters crucial to the party's growth and governance within the county," said Fadhili Msuri, the Majority Whip.

The members further described Langat as an impediment to their oversight role allowing the County Executive to run the county affairs without being held accountable.

"Langat has persistently obstructed the MCAs in carrying out their oversight role. There are significant corruption cases within the County Executive in which he is alleged to have deliberately used his position to protect the culprits," said Fadhili.

Immediately after the Deputy Speaker made the announcement, the members broke into a celebration as they congratulated their new leader in his office next to the chambers.

Fadhili, however, was quick to note that they had nothing personal against Langat but maintained that their main interest was ensuring the county was properly governed.

"We have no vendetta against anyone. It is not a witch-hunt. We are independent. Our focus is on effective oversight, representation and legislation," said Fadhili.

He added: "On many occasions, we have been called a lame duck assembly. We know our job and this is a new beginning in ensuring we live up to the expectations of the people."

Naivasha East Ward Rep Stanley Karanja said there were several matters that had been brought to the attention of the Assembly which required their action but had not been handled well.