National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula has expressed his concerns regarding the persistent absenteeism of some MPs and committee chairs and vice chairs.
Speaking during a Parliamentary retreat in Naivasha, he highlighted that the issue has adversely impacted the progress of essential Bills that are crucial for the Kenyan populace.
Wetangula noted that the lack of quorum has consistently disrupted the functioning of the assembly, asserting that such behavior is unacceptable moving forward.
He specifically criticized the Chairs and Vice Chairs for their absence during sessions while being actively engaged in foreign travels.
“If you count the numbers of chairs and vice chairs of committees the house should never luck quorum at any one time. You hold positions of privilege, we pay you extra for being chairman of committees, and the best you can give back is never to miss attendance to the house” he said.
Wetangula highlighted the significant function of committee chairpersons within the House, pointing out that they act as an essential connection between the Legislature and the Executive.
“You are the primary point of contact and oversight for Cabinet interactions. Cabinet members appear before you and before the plenary, and you must engage with them on a deeper level than just the questions posed on the floor,” he stated.
Wetangula has pledged to take decisive action against the chairs of departmental, audit, appropriations, and select committees who persist in endorsing absenteeism.
He has cautioned that such conduct may lead to their removal from their positions.
“If you appear on the order paper two or three times and you are nowhere to prosecute your agenda, we drop it, so that we don’t continue pilling work,” he remarked.
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