Nyaribari Masaba Member of Parliament Daniel Manduku has urged President William Ruto to dissolve Parliament and reconstitute the Cabinet to restore democratic integrity and public trust.
This follows widespread protests and the storming of Parliament by Gen Z demonstrators in response to the controversial Finance Bill, 2024.
“I send my condolences to the families and relatives of the innocent children who lost their lives during the otherwise peaceful protests across the country,” Manduku said in a statement dated 27th June 2024.
Manduku further stressed the necessity of dissolving Parliament under Article 261(7) of the Kenyan Constitution, which allows the President to take such action if the institution fails to fulfill its constitutional mandate.
“The recent invasion and defilement of Parliament signify a failure of the institution to maintain order, respect, and public trust,” Manduku stated.
MP Manduku on Parliament Dissolution
He noted that while Article 261(7) primarily addresses legislative delays, its underlying principle supports the dissolution of a Parliament that has lost public confidence and failed in its core responsibilities.
However, he praised the young citizens for “standing up for their rights and conducting street demonstrations as enshrined in our Constitution.”
Also Read: Details of Parliament Mace That Anti-Finance Bill Protestors Stole
According to Manduku, the protests showed a significant crisis in Kenya’s political environment, with public trust in the Kenya Kwanza Government and Parliament plummeting.
He criticized the Finance Bill 2024, pointing out that the President’s decision to return the bill to Parliament with instructions to amend it drastically indicates the need for significant legislative changes.
“This unprecedented move underscores the necessity for drastic measures to restore legislative credibility and address public grievances,” he said.
Cabinet Reconstitution
He also called for the reconstitution of the Cabinet under Article 132(2) of the Constitution.
“Given the prevailing public discontent, reconstituting the Cabinet is essential to restore governance effectiveness and public confidence,” Manduku explained.
He advocated for appointing new leaders capable of addressing the current crises and rebuilding public trust in the government’s ability to govern justly and effectively.
Manduku emphasized the importance of international oversight in ensuring credible elections.
He further suggested involving the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) to oversee fresh elections within 90 days, in line with Kenya’s obligations under various international treaties and conventions promoting democratic governance and human rights.
Also Read: MP Narrates Coming Face to Face with Protesters at Parliament Lounge
Fresh Election
“By inviting IGAD to oversee the elections, Kenya will adhere to its commitments under the African Charter on Democracy, Elections, and Governance, ensuring that the electoral process reflects the will of the people,” Manduku stated.
Manduku further stressed the urgency of this step, given the current lack of a fully constituted Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC).
Manduku concluded his statement by urging citizens to remain vigilant and ensure that leaders prioritize their interests.
“The President must act decisively, invoking constitutional provisions and seeking international assistance to steer Kenya back towards stability and democratic integrity,” he said.
“Only through such measures can Kenya rebuild trust in its institutions and chart a path toward a more secure and democratic future.” he asserted.
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