Kilifi County Senator Stewart Madzayo has cautioned Kenya Kwanza Members of Parliament against blindly serving as puppets of the Executive under the guise of loyalty.
The Senate Minority Leader on Friday, June 9 expressed concern over the current situation, stressing that the Executive has reduced both chambers of Parliament to mere conduits.
“It is a shame that Parliament is being controlled,” he said.
The senator spoke in reference to the ongoing discourse on the Finance Bill 2023.
While speaking during a media workshop of Parliamentary journalist, Senator Madzayo claimed this situation undermines the essential principles of proper oversight and accountability, as the Executive seems to prioritize these aspects less.
Moreover, President William Ruto has been mobilizing his Kenya Kwanza allies in Parliament to ensure the smooth passage of the controversial Finance Bill 2023.
Likewise, the head of state on June 4 issued a threat against those who would oppose the Bill after publicly declaring his desire for the MPs to cast an open vote on it.
However, the Kilifi Senator emphasized that no leader should surrender to threats, as they are ultimately accountable to their electorate, who expect them to uphold fairness in their representation.
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“Gone are the days when threats used to prevail. Vote with your own conscious You need to safeguard the welfare of your people always,” he said.
Nonetheless, the Finance Bill 2023 continues to face significant opposition from different stakeholders in the country and the public.
However, the Kenya Kwanza leaders remain confident and determined to pass the bill.
Furthermore, the Senate Minority Leader expressed his disappointment at the unfortunate and inconsiderate actions of the leaders who, despite being aware of the ongoing challenges faced by Kenyans, continue to overlook these concerns.
“We can improve and make this country a better place. We need to be leaders of our own mind,” he noted.
