A constitutional petition has been lodged at the High Court challenging the use of State House for partisan political activities, with the petitioner arguing that the practice violates the Constitution and misuses public resources. The case, filed at the Constitutional and Human Rights Division in Nairobi by lawyer Lempaa Suyianka, claims that State facilities have been used to advance the agenda of the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA). Suyianka contends that public funds and infrastructure meant for official government business are being diverted to support party political engagements.
Respondents Named
The petition lists several respondents, including:
- The Attorney General
- The Comptroller of State House
- The United Democratic Alliance (UDA)
- President William Ruto (sued in his official capacity)
The petitioner is asking the court to compel UDA to refund all public funds allegedly spent on political meetings and events held at State House and various State Lodges.
Call for Permanent Ban
In addition, the petition seeks a permanent court injunction prohibiting all political parties from staging meetings, forums, or political functions within State House premises.
Claims on Misuse of Public Facilities
Court filings argue that State House and State Lodges are national institutions reserved strictly for official State duties and are funded through taxpayer money approved by Parliament. The petition references multiple political gatherings reportedly held at State House between April 2025 and February 2026. These include:
- Consultations with regional political leaders
- Party strategy meetings
- A UDA aspirants’ forum attended by thousands of members and officials
According to the petitioner, these events were partisan in nature rather than official State functions.
Concerns Over Costs and Accountability
The lawyer alleges that State resources, including security, staff, catering, logistics, and communication systems — were deployed during the meetings without any public disclosure of costs. He further accuses the State House Comptroller of failing to provide accountability reports on the expenditure, which he says breaches constitutional standards on transparency and prudent use of public funds.
Constitutional Violations Cited
The petition claims the actions violate several constitutional provisions, including:
- Article 10 – National values and principles of governance
- Articles 73 & 75 – Leadership and integrity
- Articles 129 & 131 – Executive authority and presidential responsibilities
- Articles 201 & 226 – Public finance accountability
It also references sections of the Political Parties Act, which bar the use of public resources to promote political party interests.
Orders Sought
Among the key remedies requested, the petitioner wants the court to:
- Declare the use of State House for partisan political activities unconstitutional.
- Order UDA to reimburse all public funds spent on such events.
- Compel the State House Comptroller to disclose the full cost of political activities hosted at State House.
- Issue a permanent injunction banning political meetings at State House.
