The National Liberal Party (NLP) has sharply questioned the appointment of Prof. Makau Mutua as an advisor in President William Ruto’s administration, terming the move a tokenistic gesture that falls far short of honoring both his legacy and the rightful place of the Kamba community in national leadership.
In what is now being viewed as a glaring contradiction in the ongoing Ruto-Raila political arrangement, junior allies of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga who have reportedly been considered for full Cabinet appointments—yet Prof. Makau Mutua, his most loyal and intellectual lieutenant, has only been awarded a low-profile advisory position.
Speaking exclusively to Channel 15 Political Scoop, Dr. Augustus Kyalo Muli, NLP Party Leader, did not hold back:
“Prof. Makau Mutua is a towering legal intellect and one of the most consistent defenders of democracy. If, after years of service to Raila and country, all he gets is an advisory role, then we must ask—is this all the Kamba community is worth in this so-called inclusive government?”
Dr. Muli emphasized that the NLP is not crying foul, but raising legitimate questions about the true intentions behind the Ruto-Raila unity pact.
“This is not just about Makau as an individual. It’s about how Ukambani continues to be shortchanged. A Cabinet slot, the Attorney General’s office, even Chief Justice—those are positions befitting Prof. Mutua’s stature. Not an invisible advisory seat,” he added.
David Mutiso , a local political commentator who also spoke to Channel 15 Political Scoop echoed Dr. Muli’s sentiments:
“This appointment is nothing short of symbolic pacification. Makau Mutua represents the intellectual soul of Ukambani. To tuck him away in the shadows after serving the opposition with distinction is both undeserving and disrespectful to the community he comes from.”
The commentator warned that if such appointments are what the so-called “broad-based” government has in store for historically marginalized regions, then it risks further alienating communities already growing disillusioned by unfulfilled promises.
Responding to critics, the former Buffalo Law School tutor Prof. Makau Mutua stated:
“Why are some people so troubled by my decision to accept the appointment by President Ruto as Senior Advisor on Constitutional Affairs? After a lifetime in law at the highest levels, I see this as a meaningful way to serve my country. Some critics would take the role in a heartbeat. Let’s allow those qualified to serve. I believe I can make a real contribution.”
As the Raila-Ruto pact continues to unfold, the big question remains: Will Ukambani’s best continue to be sidelined, or is it time for the community to demand its rightful share in the governance of Kenya?
