A light moment was witnessed during a Parliamentary Group meeting in Karen that was attended by ODM and UDA lawmakers alongside President William Ruto and Raila Odinga.
Speaking during the media presser on Monday, August 18, 2025, Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah saluted MPs Junet Mohamed and Senator Aaron Cheruiyot for their ability to maintain influential positions in parliament since the last administration, unlike him, who is serving in such a role for the first time.
Ichung’wah humorously admitted uncertainty about his political future, suggesting that his tenure may be short-lived compared to his colleagues.
“I don’t know whether I will earn myself a second term, Mr Excellency, the way Junet Mohamed and Senator Aaron Cheruiyot are in parliament,” he remarked, drawing laughter from fellow legislators.
Praise for unity
The Majority Leader shifted tone to thank both President Ruto and former Prime Minister Raila Odinga for what he termed as fostering national unity.
He acknowledged the cooperation between the two leaders, noting that their symbolic gesture of working together had eased political tensions in the country.
“I appreciate remarks by former Prime Minister Raila Odinga for those who aren’t supporting this broad-based government to give us some space,” Ichung’wah added.
The concept of a broad-based government has sparked debate across Kenya’s political divide.
While proponents argue that it fosters inclusivity and reduces political hostility, critics contend that it risks weakening accountability by blurring the lines between the government and opposition.
Ichung’wah’s remarks, though lighthearted at first, underscored the delicate balancing act among political leaders as they try to rally behind the initiative.
His candid admission about political survival was interpreted by observers as a reflection of the shifting dynamics in Mount Kenya politics, where loyalty to the ruling coalition is constantly being tested.
The Karen meeting ended on a reconciliatory note, with both ODM and UDA MPs reiterating their commitment to work together for the good of the country.
For Ichung’wah, however, the question of whether he will secure a second term remains an open one, albeit delivered with a smile.
