Nairobi Members of County Assembly (MCAs) have all been sworn in despite earlier protests by Kenya Kwanza allied MCAs that they would not be sworn in after their Speaker candidate was locked out of the race.

The ceremony, which was presided over by Assembly Clerk Edward Gichana, had 123 members being sworn in with 85 being elected and 38 nominated by their respective parties and the Embakasi Ward election is yet to be conducted.

According to Article 74 of the Constitution, any elected member has to take an oath before assuming the roles of the said office.

Senior MCAs given priority

The oldest serving MCAs including Mihango MCA Paul Kados and Kariobangi South’s Robert Mbatia were given first priority to be sworn in.

Mbatia served as Nairobi councilor before being elected as an MCA in 2013.

The swearing-in took place under tight security as persons with disabilities also protested outside the Assembly building over nomination saying they were locked out despite being on the list.

The group led by Dr. Mercy Onsando who filed a petition at the High Court claimed that the nomination was flawed and violated the Constitution as they were sidelined among the special interest groups.

Onsando maintained that the Elections Act stipulates that at least two persons with disabilities are required to be nominated.

“The formula that was used to gazette persons with special interests failed to ensure that persons with disabilities were taken care of,” she stated.

Onsando further stated that they are sure justice will prevail at the court when the hearing commences in early October.

“The hearing of our case will take place early next month. The judge assured us that even if swearing-in happens the court will ensure justice is done. We trust that the case will give direction for now and for the future to ensure the rights of PWDs are protected not only now but also in the future,” she added.

The swearing-in was attended by Azimio leaders including Nairobi Senator and ODM Secretary General, Edwin Sifuna, Lang’ata MP Felix Odiwour, Ruaraka MP Tom Kajwang, Nairobi Woman Rep Esther Passaris, and Starehe MP Amos Mwago among others.