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Senators from the Minority side yesterday stormed out of a retreat and accused Speaker Amason Kingi for stifling debate, disrespecting them and pushing unconstitutional bills.

They also demanded that the Affordable Housing Bill, which is before Senate, be subjected to public participation.

“We demand that the 47 Counties pronounce themselves on this because in one way or another it affects the counties,” said Migori Senator Eddy Oketch.

The Senators, led by Minority Leader Stewart Madzayo (Kilifi), claimed that the speaker had contributed to the “capture” of the Senate legislative business by stifling debate on controversial bills.

The Kilifi lawmaker said the government was using shortcuts to fast-rack bills and limit debate in the House.

“We the membership of the minority side have left the said retreat in protest at the hypocrisy of the leadership of the Senate and especially the open disregard of the rules of the House and contempt directed at the minority side and its leadership,” said Madzayo in a statement.

The Senators accused the Speaker for repeatedly and without legal justification refusing to approve questions and motions sponsored by members of the Minority.

Ledama Olekina (Narok) said they were dissatisfied with the way the House was being managed.

“We are not asking for favours. All we want is that the minority is respected and that debate is not stifled,” he said.

Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna accused the Speaker of hypocrisy and professional misconduct.

“The Senate is a House of debate but debate is being stifled. It is also professional misconduct not to respond to official letters. There are a few characters notorious of bringing frivolous points of order whenever Senators from Minority side are making their debates,” said Sifuna.