26 Members of the Nairobi County Assembly (MCAs) affiliated with the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) on Tuesday announced intentions to skip a meeting called by Secretary General Cleophas Malala slated for Thursday, October 26.
In a statement released by Nairobi County Assembly Deputy Minority Whip Joyce Muthoni, the politicians informed Malala that they would be skipping the meeting over what they described as shortchanging by senior party leadership.
To justify their point, the MCAs gave the example of Governor Johnson Sakaja who they accused of appointing Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) members to key positions in his administration.
"We are writing in reference to the invitation to the meeting scheduled for this coming Thursday, purportedly to revisit the issues concerning the leadership of the Nairobi City County Assembly," read part of the statement.
In the letter, Muthoni argued that Sakaja's actions were a gross violation of the party principles and the constitution.
"Such actions raise legitimate questions regarding the Governor's allegiance and fidelity to our party," she added.
Some of the politicians who signed the statement include several officials recently appointed by the Secretary-General to serve in key positions within the party.
The politicians also pointed to leadership wrangles within the ruling party, which are still being addressed by the political party's disputes tribunal as another reason why they are skipping the meeting.
They added that attending the Thursday meeting would be a violation of the sub judice rule adding that refraining from the meeting will ensure fairness and integrity.
Further, Muthoni explained that as per the UDA constitution Article 29.1.5 Malala's involvement in the meeting, where he is expected to solve party disputes, would be a conflict of interest on his part.
"Given the above-stated reasons, we find it in the best interest of our party, and in line with upholding our constitution, to respectfully decline the invitation to the proposed meeting. It is of paramount importance that we adhere to the laid-down procedures and principles in resolving disputes and ensuring party cohesion," read part of the statement.
