NAIROBI, Kenya – National Assembly Minority Whip Junet Mohamed has defended the nomination of Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leaders to various Cabinet positions, asserting that all Kenyans, regardless of political affiliation, have the right to serve in the government.
Mohamed’s comments come in response to criticism suggesting that the opposition party has been co-opted by President William Ruto’s administration.
He emphasized that every citizen contributes to the nation’s welfare through taxes and therefore deserves equal opportunity to participate in governance.
“These are our taxes. Everyone in Kenya pays taxes and everyone has a right to work in government,” the legislator said.
“We want everyone to feel like a Kenyan. Those who don’t want to join the government should remain in politics and do it out here.”
The Suna East MP was addressing concerns about the recent nominations of key ODM figures to Cabinet roles.
Last week, President Ruto nominated ODM deputy party leaders Hassan Joho and Wycliffe Oparanya, along with chairman John Mbadi and National Assembly minority leader Opiyo Wandayi, for positions in the Mining, Cooperatives, National Treasury, and Energy ministries, respectively.
Junet argued that these individuals bring valuable expertise and experience, which are crucial for addressing the country’s challenges.
He stressed that the ODM party’s participation in the government is not an abandonment of its opposition role but a contribution to the country’s leadership.
“We want everyone to feel included and represented in the government. Those who have the capability and desire to work in government should be allowed to do so,” he reiterated.
Despite the appointments, Junet assured the public that ODM remains committed to its oversight role.
He promised that the party would continue to hold the government accountable, particularly during the vetting of the Cabinet Secretary nominees.
“This time, if somebody is not suitable, capable, and doesn’t have the capacity, we are going to throw them out. We must do justice to Kenyans. We must do our work properly this time,” he said.
