The Devolution Empowerment Party (DEP), widely known as the Bus Party, is preparing to hold a National Delegates Convention (NDC) to address internal leadership conflicts and possibly replace officials associated with former Meru Governor Kiraitu Murungi. The party has faced ongoing disputes over leadership positions, with factions vying for control.
Kiraitu, who resigned as the Bus Party leader in June after a dispute with the National Executive Committee (NEC), stepped down citing his role as a public officer as the chair of the National Oil Corporation. Despite his resignation, allies of Kiraitu have continued efforts to assert influence over the party, leading to a series of legal confrontations.
The upcoming NDC is anticipated to bring significant leadership changes, including potentially ending Kiraitu’s influence over DEP. Lawyer Mugambi Imanyara, the party’s secretary-general, is part of a faction pushing for the NDC to appoint new officials and strengthen the party’s influence ahead of the 2027 elections. Although Imanyara faced a suspension from the NEC over alleged misconduct, this suspension was not finalized by the registrar of parties. He expressed optimism about the NDC, stating, “We will soon hold our NDC to put our house in order and elect officials who will steer the party into a national movement.”
The DEP is also linked to former Embu Senator Leny Kivuti, further illustrating the party’s complex alliances. This convention could set the stage for the Bus Party’s reorganization as it prepares for its role in Kenya’s future political landscape.
