KANU members back Nick Salat's suspension as SG over 'misconduct'

Kanu's National Executive Committee (NEC) move to suspend party Secretary General Nick Salat has received the backing of members drawn from across the country.

County chairpersons from all the 47 devolved units led by Isiolo branch chair Rehema Abdikadir yesterday threw their weight behind the NEC's decision to ouster Salat.

They were hosted by party chairman Gideon Moi at his Kabarak home.

"As branch chairpersons from all 47 counties, we unequivocally endorse the recent suspension of Mr Nick Salat for his gross misconduct and violation of the party constitution," said Abdikadir.

Abdikadir said that Salat's behavior warranted his removal from the key position in the best interest of the independence party, which is on a path of restructuring ahead of the next elections. "Salat's behavior and conduct as a national office has brought disrepute to the party and the office of the Secretary-General," she said in the joint statement.

The leaders further stated that Salat should not fear unfair treatment expressing their confidence in the internal disciplinary committee to accord him a fair hearing and determination.

"We unequivocally support NEC's decision to refer the matter to the party's Disciplinary Committee. This is in line with the party's constitution to accord him a fair hearing," she said.

The leaders hinted that the suspended secretary general had made derogatory statements against the party and its leadership. "We have proper structures to enforce order in our rank and file. We condemn incensed and misguided pronouncements against the party, its membership, and leadership," said Abdikadir.

They urged Salat to desist from interfering with the laid down procedures and to ensure there is an impartial hearing and determination of the case.

"We are fully behind our chairperson Mr Gideon Moi for exercising his authority and powers conferred on him by the party constitution as the overall leader for proper conduct," she said.

She added that "The party remains united, solid and committed to the ideals, values of rule of law, equality and shared prosperity."

Murang'a branch chairperson Anthony Tum said that they believe in the party's leadership on matters of their interest to ensure the party stands farm and with respect. "Salat no longer represents the views of the party until a time his case is concluded. The decision made was aimed at protecting the party's image and not a personal vendetta," said Mr Tum.

Vihiga county chairperson Margaret Mbuni said that they had faith in Gideon's leadership noting that there was no time to waste as the party needed to prepare itself ahead of the 2027 polls.

Homabay branch chairperson Ken Okumu said that he would lead with other grassroots leaders in rallying Nyanza region behind Kanu noting that regional politics were shifting.

"Our politics are changing and Kanu will be one of the biggest parties in Nyanza and nationally in the next five years. We shall root for membership registration and the ideals of the party to compete with others in the region without any fear," said Okumu.