Wandayi defends CSs' political role

Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi /FILE

Energy CS Opiyo Wandayi has defended the right of state officers, especially cabinet secretaries to participate in political activities while serving in government.

He cited constitutional provisions that guarantee citizens’ political freedoms.

Wandayi said upon assuming his current role, he relinquished his official position as ODM’s secretary for political affairs, a role he held for nearly 10 years.

However, he insisted he remains a committed party member, participating as a life member.

“I have no capacity to speak officially on behalf of the party, but I am a quintessential party member. I continue to participate actively in ODM affairs,” Wandayi said.

He argued that Article 38 of the constitution grants every Kenyan the right to belong to a political party while executing their ministerial duties.

Wandayi said a common misconception suggesting cabinet secretaries should avoid partisan politics is misplaced.

“The constitution recognises that CSs are also citizens with rights to association and political engagement,” he said.

“These rights cannot be limited except under specific contexts outlined in the law.”

He further referenced the Conflict of Interest Act, enacted last year, which explicitly allows cabinet secretaries and county executive members to engage in political affairs, while restricting other appointed officers from partisan involvement.

“There is nothing out of the ordinary in a Cabinet Secretary participating in political activities. Participating in party activities does not interfere with my ability to serve all citizens equally,” Wandayi said.

Addressing concerns over potential conflicts between government duties and political participation, Wandayi explained that his primary responsibility as CS is to implement and communicate government policy.

“I must explain to Kenyans what the government under President William Ruto is doing, what it has achieved and what it intends to do,” he said.

Wandayi said highlighting government achievements and encouraging citizens to vote based on performance should not be confused with partisan campaigning.

“If the government delivers on its objectives, explaining these achievements may naturally influence voters. There is no contradiction in doing this while serving in Cabinet,” he said.

Wandayi’s remarks come amid heightened issue in Kenyan politics, whether sitting cabinet secretaries can actively participate in partisan politics ahead of 2027.

“Being a Cabinet Secretary and participating in party affairs is not mutually exclusive. The law and the constitution make this clear,” Wandayi said.