Fake news': Ichung’wah denies fallout with President Ruto

Kikuyu MP and National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah has denied claims of a fallout with President William Ruto.

Ichung’wah dismissed reports alleging that he had threatened the Head of State with impeachment, describing them as “fake news.”

In a statement shared on his social media platforms, Ichung’wah rejected reports suggesting tensions between him and the President, saying such claims were false and aimed at creating unnecessary controversy.

“Whereas the Constitution gives Parliament immense powers as the legislature, we do not threaten anybody, let alone the President, who is our team leader,” he said.

Some reports had claimed that Ichung’wah, who holds a powerful role in Parliament, had cautioned the President that MPs have the constitutional mandate to remove him from office.

However, Ichung’wah firmly denied those claims, stressing that his focus remains on collaboration between the arms of government to serve Kenyans.

“The Legislature and Executive work independently but with complementary roles to deliver our agenda. That is what we are focused on,” he added.

“We respect William Samoei Ruto not just as the President but also as our team leader.”

The clarification comes against the backdrop of growing unease between Parliament and the Executive after the President recently expressed concern that some MPs were engaging in unethical practices.

“Parliament has become a marketplace for extortion,” the President stated in remarks that triggered sharp reactions across the political divide.

Several lawmakers criticised the comments, saying they undermined the institution of Parliament and its integrity.

Despite the uproar, Ichung’wah struck a conciliatory tone, noting that the President had the right to raise concerns.

“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 stated.

Ichung’wah emphasised the importance of mutual respect between government branches, underscoring Parliament’s duty to uphold its dignity and independence while engaging constructively with the Executive.

“We also recognise the need to uphold the dignity and integrity of the institution of Parliament, as the President has rightly stated,” he said.