UDA Leaders Urge CS Justin Muturi to Step Down

NAIROBI — Prominent members of the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) have called on Public Service Cabinet Secretary Justin Muturi to resign following his recent criticisms of the government over abductions and forced disappearances. Environment Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale led the charge, urging Muturi to step down if he remains dissatisfied with the administration.

During a tour of the North Eastern region over the weekend, Duale criticized Muturi for what he described as inappropriate and damaging remarks about the government. “If you are privileged and unhappy as a Cabinet Secretary, the best thing is to resign,” Duale stated, emphasizing the need for respect toward the President and other appointing authorities. He added that engaging in altercations with the President was “not fair” and undermined the unity required within the Cabinet.

Senate Majority Leader Aaron Cheruyiot echoed these sentiments during a speech in Mandera, accusing Muturi of appearing tribal in his criticism. “People in Kenya want a government that serves all with fairness and equality,” Cheruyiot said, warning that such divisive leaders would ultimately face rejection at the ballot box.

National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah also weighed in while addressing constituents in Muturi’s home county of Embu. He urged the CS to stop attacking the government, stating, “Those who attempt to lecture the President and Deputy President on their supposed knowledge should give us a break.”

Mogotio MP Reuben Kiborek further questioned Muturi’s credibility, pointing out that the issue of abductions had persisted during his tenure as Speaker of the National Assembly, where he allegedly took little action to address the problem.

The calls come after Muturi emerged as the lone dissenting voice in the Cabinet, criticizing the government’s handling of rising abduction cases. On Friday, he reiterated his concerns following the discovery of the bodies of two of the missing Kitengela Four brothers. Despite his intentions, Muturi’s vocal opposition has sparked backlash from fellow UDA members, highlighting growing tensions within the ruling coalition. As pressure mounts, observers await Muturi’s response and whether he will heed the calls to step aside.