National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah has strongly denied reports alleging a rift between him and President William Ruto, dismissing the claims as baseless and politically motivated.
The Kikuyu MP, who holds one of the most influential positions in Parliament, refuted allegations that he had threatened the President with impeachment, terming the reports “fake news” designed to create unnecessary tension.
“Whereas the Constitution gives Parliament immense powers as the legislature, we do not threaten anybody, let alone the President, who is our team leader,” Ichung’wah stated in a message shared on his social media platforms.
The denial came after claims circulated suggesting that Ichung’wah had cautioned the President about the legislature’s constitutional mandate to remove him from office. He dismissed the speculation, stressing that his role remains focused on strengthening cooperation between Parliament and the Executive for the benefit of Kenyans.
“The Legislature and Executive work independently but with complementary roles to deliver our agenda. That is what we are focused on,” he noted. “We respect William Samoei Ruto not just as the President but also as our team leader.”
The clarification follows recent tensions between the Executive and Parliament after President Ruto openly criticized legislators, accusing some of turning Parliament into “a marketplace for extortion.” His remarks drew sharp reactions across the political divide, with lawmakers accusing the President of undermining the dignity and independence of the House.
Ichung’wah, however, struck a conciliatory tone, acknowledging the President’s right to raise concerns while urging for mutual respect between the arms of government.
“That is the role he plays as President. We respect that, as much as we appreciate our role in oversight of the other arms of government,” he said.
He further underscored the importance of safeguarding Parliament’s integrity, noting that both the Executive and Legislature must work together despite their independent mandates.
“We also recognise the need to uphold the dignity and integrity of the institution of Parliament, as the President has rightly stated,” Ichung’wah added.
His statement appears aimed at calming political speculation while reinforcing unity within President Ruto’s administration amid growing scrutiny of government operations.
