Kathiani Member of Parliament (MP) Robert Mbui has sounded the alarm over what he terms as growing hostility directed at Parliament, accusing the executive of undermining the legislature.

Speaking in a heated session of the National Assembly on August 19, 2025, Mbui warned that the rift between the two arms of government is widening amid public anger and corruption allegations.

His remarks come against the backdrop of lingering resentment from last year’s Finance Bill 2024 protests, when demonstrators stormed Parliament on June 25, leading to 19 deaths and over 200 injuries, according to the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights.

Mbui, who also serves as the Deputy Leader of the Minority, said MPs are increasingly facing hostility both online and offline, fuelled by the Executive’s public criticism.

“Parliament is under attack. If you go on social media, read a newspaper, or switch on your TV, this house is continuously under attack. It has reached the people we represent. The Executive must respect this House,” Mbui declared.

He argued that MPs have often supported the Executive in pushing through unpopular policies, only to be disowned when backlash follows. “We must make sure that, as a House, we fight together. There is something going on with the Executive,” he added.

Defence against Ruto’s accusations

Mbui’s reaction followed President William Ruto’s recent claims that parliamentary committees are rife with corruption. The President’s remarks sparked an outcry, with lawmakers demanding respect for the institution.

Mbui dismissed the accusations as hypocritical, pointing to flashy displays of wealth by top government officials. “When they say that this House has corrupt practices, I have been seeing empowerment forums all over the country. Someone who was just a CS the other day is able to give about Kh2 million or Sh3 million every week. What we need to do is start auditing the Executive, also. This is a case of the pot calling the kettle black,” he said.

His sentiments were echoed by Endebess MP Robert Pukose, who described the President’s public rebuke as embarrassing. He suggested that the Head of State may have been misled on claims that Sh10 million was paid to the Justice and Legal Affairs Committee (JLAC).

Growing rift

The exchange highlights a deepening mistrust between the executive and the legislature, raising concerns about the stability of Kenya’s governance structures. Mbui urged Parliament to defend its authority and demand accountability from the Executive.

As political tensions mount, the standoff is expected to shape the country’s political discourse in the coming months.