'CSs have the right to engage in politics': Wandayi defends involvement in ODM activities

Speaking during an interview on Citizen TV on Tuesday, Wandayi dismissed the notion that his public engagements were tantamount to early campaigns for President William Ruto's re-election.

He maintained that his role is to communicate the government’s achievements, leaving the final decision to Kenyans.

"You may choose to call it a campaign, but the fact is that I have been explaining to Kenyans what the government of President Ruto is doing for them and that if they feel satisfied, they vote for him again," Wandayi stated.

At the same time, the CS reaffirmed his loyalty to the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), saying he's still a lifelong member of the party. 

"I am a life member of ODM and continue to participate actively in the affairs of the party. There is this misplaced notion that CSs should not participate in the affairs of political parties. The Constitution recognizes that CSs have the right to engage in political affairs," he noted. 

Section 77(2) of the Constitution prohibits State officers from holding any office in a political party. However, Section 23 of the Leadership and Integrity Act gives Cabinet Secretaries the leeway to hold political views but are expected to remain non-partisan in the execution of their official duties. 

Wandayi further defended the government’s performance, highlighting progress in the energy sector.

"From August 2022 to date, we have connected 1.3 million households to electricity, a 15% jump from where it was; it’s monumental. We have seen many other things happening under this administration; therefore, I don’t think it is proper to even imagine that government work has been hampered in any way as a result of the activities that are going on out there," he stated.

Wandayi also reminisced about the death of longtime ODM party leader and former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, describing a sense of loss among his allies.

"Most of us who were Raila’s political disciples feel orphaned. His passing on was unexpected, and so we are still trying to cope with that situation, but again, life must go on because we owe it to Kenyans to perpetuate Baba’s legacy by serving Kenyans," he stated.