I have the right to back any aspirant, Embu Senator Mundigu tells DP party

Embu Senator Alexander Mundigi addressing the press after attending a church service at ACK Mayori in Mbeere South Constituency, Embu./KNA

Embu Senator Alexander Munyi Mundigu has hit back at a warning issued by the Democratic Party (DP), asserting his legal right to support any candidate under the Kenya Kwanza coalition while reaffirming his loyalty to the party.

The warning, dated November 18, was issued by DP Secretary-General Jacob Haji, citing concerns over Mundigu’s alleged endorsement of a candidate for the Mbeere North parliamentary seat who is not the party’s officially nominated aspirant. 

The party described such actions as contrary to established party policy and loyalty and directed the senator to immediately cease activities that contradict official party positions. 

"You have been actively campaigning for a candidate who is not the DP's nominated aspirant for Mbeere North, despite the party having a duly endorsed and recognised candidate," stated the party statement.

Additionally, DP requested a written explanation from Mundigu addressing the allegations and a declaration of loyalty to the party in all political and public engagements.

Through his lawyer, Danstan Omari, Mundigu clarified that he was still in Uganda on official duties when the letter was delivered. 

The senator’s personal assistant was summoned to Parliament to collect the correspondence, which Mundigu has since instructed his team to respond to.

He further argues that the party acted prematurely, noting that under Articles 9 and 10 of the party constitution and by-laws, key organs such as the National Delegates Committee and the National Governing Council are mandated to convene and pass resolutions on matters of coalition participation and disciplinary action.

Speaking on the matter, Mundigu said that threats of expulsion without prior discourse are counterproductive.

He said such actions “serve as a claw back on my role and grip as an acting deputy leader” within the party.

“I retain the legal right to back any Kenya Kwanza candidate and propel them and their ambition into being elected, given that legally, DP continues being a member of the Kenya Kwanza coalition,” Mundigu stated. 

He further added that he remains an astute and devoted member of the DP, underscoring his commitment to the party despite ongoing disagreements over candidate endorsements.

The senator also noted that he has consistently been remitting party fees without fail, highlighting his continued engagement and support for DP.

 The Mbeere North by-election witnessed a fierce contest between UDA’s Leonard Muthende and DP’s Newton Karish.

In a tightly contested and closely watched race, UDA’s Leonard Muthende emerged victorious, securing the Mbeere North parliamentary seat and further consolidating the party’s influence in Embu County.