Wetangula, act on malingering MPs
By Editorial.Team, June 3, 2024Article 1 of the Constitution is clear that all sovereign power belongs to the people of Kenya and shall be exercised only in accordance with the supreme law.
The people may exercise their sovereign power either directly or through their democratically elected representatives.
The sovereign power is delegated to Parliament and county assemblies, the national executive and the executive structures in devolved regions, the Judiciary and independent tribunals. The President and other State officers swear to defend and protect the Constitution as the country’s sovereign guide.
That is why we are concerned about the brazen indiscipline of the political elite, particularly Members of Parliament. These are the people entrusted by citizens with the sacred duty of representing them in the House, pass laws and offer oversight of state organs.
The audacious declaration by some members that they don’t need to attend Parliament to process petitions by the people is extremely troubling. Instead of going to work for the people, some MPs are spending their time in dirty corners cutting deals, which, as is often the case, have nothing in them for their constituents.
To say that this is a grave dereliction of duty is an understatement. Standing Order 258 of the National Assembly states that if, during a session, a member is absent from eight sittings without the written permission of the Speaker, the Speaker shall report the matter in writing to the House and the matter will be referred to the Committee of Powers and Privileges for hearing and determination.
Further, the committee shall inquire into a matter referred to it under paragraph (1) within 14 days from the date the issue is referred to it and shall thereupon submit a report to the House.
It is apparent that MPs bragging about being absent from duty are violating parliamentary rules. Neglecting to do their work as lawmakers also smacks of utter disdain for the people who elected them.
Even more worrisome is what comes across as inaction from National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula. He swore to defend the Constitution and protect the public interest but has failed to reprimand the offending MPs. We don’ think Wetangula needs us to remind him to do his job and take appropriate action.