The One Kenya Coalition leadership in the County Assembly of Nairobi is taking disciplinary action against Kariobangi South MCA Robert Mbatia for allegedly showing “unethical open affection” towards the rival coalition, Kenya Kwanza Alliance.
In a letter dated March 1, 2023, Azimio Majority Whip in the assembly, Moses Ogeto, asked Mbatia to submit a written explanation of his conduct and provide a valid reason why disciplinary action should not be taken against him. The letter stated that the MCA’s alleged remarks, published in one of the local dailies, sent mixed signals and caused unnecessary anxiety among the party members and supporters.
“You are hereby asked to submit a written explanation of your conduct and provide us a valid cause why disciplinary action should not be taken against you. It should reach the office of the Majority Party Whip within seven working days,” the latter reads in part.
Mbatia was among six MCAs who met with Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua last month amid tension surrounding the coalition in the assembly. The move raised concerns about the unity of the coalition, which was formed in September 2022 to support the presidential bid of Raila Odinga in the upcoming 2022 general elections.
The coalition includes the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), Wiper Democratic Movement, Amani National Congress (ANC), Kanu, and Ford-Kenya parties. However, there have been reports of divisions within the coalition, with some members defecting to other parties or showing support for rival coalitions.
