Wiper Patriotic Front leader Kalonzo Musyoka has launched a blistering attack on the Kenya Kwanza administration, accusing Cabinet secretaries of openly flouting constitutional rules by campaigning for ruling party candidates in ongoing by-elections.
Speaking at a media briefing in Machakos on Monday, the former vice president questioned why the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission and the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission have remained silent as senior government officials criss-cross constituencies in clear breach of political neutrality requirements.
Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku has been leading rallies in Mbeere North for Kenya Kwanza candidate Leonard Wamuthende.
In Muumbuni ward, Labour CS Alfred Mutua has thrown his weight behind Maendeleo Chap Chap aspirant Harrison Wambua while simultaneously attacking Governor Wavinya Ndeti. Mining CS Hassan Joho has taken a similar role in Magarini constituency, backing Harrison Kombe, while Energy CS Opiyo Wandayi is behind ODM’s Boyd Were in Kasipul.
“We have noted, though not suprised… the entire Cabinet and public servants have been mobilised into a deadly campaign machinery, complete with government helicopters and vehicles, in direct violation of the Constitution and the Leadership and Integrity Act. Legal action must be taken.”
Kalonzo Musyoka blasted Speakers Moses Wetangula and Amason Kingi for engaging in campaigns despite their impartial roles.
Article 77 and Chapter Six of the Constitution, alongside the Leadership and Integrity Act, explicitly bar Cabinet secretaries from engaging in political activities, holding party office or campaigning for candidates. Appointees must resign from political parties and remain neutral.
Health CS Aden Duale has previously defended such involvement, arguing that the Constitution recognizes Kenya’s political Cabinet system and that ministers are merely advancing the government agenda. Critics counter that the law draws a clear line between policy advocacy and partisan electioneering, especially when public resources are deployed.
Kalonzo warned that the trend risks tilting the playing field in by-elections and normalising the abuse of office ahead of 2027. “If EACC and IEBC cannot act now, what message are we sending?” he asked. “That incumbents can campaign with state machinery while the opposition is bound to the rules?”
With several parliamentary and civic by-elections underway, the accusations have reignited debate over the blurred lines between government and ruling party in President Ruto’s administration.
