In a surprising turn of events, Nominated Member of
Parliament (MP) John Mbadi has ignited a constitutional debate, urging all
National Assembly members elected under the Azimio coalition who are currently
supporting President William Ruto's administration to resign. According to
Mbadi, this move is a constitutional requirement, necessitating these MPs to
seek fresh mandates from their constituents under their 'newfound parties.'
Mbadi's stance is rooted in the belief that these MPs must
secure permission from their electorate due to their shift in allegiance. He
emphasized, "Even in ODM, which has never shown any inclination to align
with Kenya Kwanza, there are ODM members who are effectively part of Kenya
Kwanza. They vote and speak in alignment with Kenya Kwanza's interests. The
best course of action is for them to seek a fresh mandate. My own MP is
associating with Kenya Kwanza, yet he has never sought the opinion of the
electorate."
Advocating for the preservation of the principles of
multi-party democracy enshrined in the Constitution, Mbadi said, "Our
constitution embodies the essence of multi-party democracy, and this provision
was not merely included to fill the pages of the 2010 Constitution."
In a pointed response, Mbadi also criticized President
William Ruto's call for a functional opposition to oversee his administration.
Mbadi accused Ruto of attempting to weaken the very opposition he seeks to oversee,
by enticing its members to join his side. He stated, "You cannot claim to
want a robust and vibrant opposition to oversee you while simultaneously
absorbing them into your government unlawfully."
President Ruto had previously written to the National
Assembly, requesting an amendment to the constitution to establish the Office
of the Opposition Leader, a move aimed at creating more effective government
checks and balances. Ruto emphasized the need for distinct structures to hold
the government accountable, highlighting the ambiguity resulting from the
handshake agreement that has shaped recent political dynamics.
As this debate continues to unfold, it raises essential
questions about the boundaries of party loyalty, the constitutional obligations
of elected representatives, and the dynamic relationship between government and
opposition in Kenya's evolving political landscape. The outcomes of these
developments could significantly impact the country's democratic framework and
the way its leaders are held accountable.
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