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Senate speaker calls for sober, mature debate as Coalition Bill is tabled

 

The contentious political parties bill has been introduced in the Senate.

This sets the stage for a grueling battle between allies of the President Uhuru Kenyatta and ODM leader Raila Odinga, on one end, and those of Deputy President William Ruto.

The Political Parties (Amendment) Bill, 2021 was introduced for first reading on Tuesday and immediately committed to the House Justice and Legal Affairs committee by Speaker Kenneth Lusaka to conduct public participation.

The speaker called for mature and sober debate on the bill that seeks to create political party coalitions.

The introduction of the proposed law immediately attracted a reaction from the senators as they joined the speaker in calling for thorough public participation and sober debate devoid of chaos and fistfights witnessed in the National Assembly.

The Bill was passed by the National Assembly in a chaotic session marred with shouting matches and name calling last week.

Elgeyo Marakwet Senator Kipchumba Murkomen, an ally of the DP, was the first to rise on a point of order, and sought an assurance that the Bill will not rushed.

"I want to assume that because of the import of this bill, that Kenyans will be given an opportunity through a robust, well publicised public participation," Murkomen said.

The former majority leader said they have high expectations that senators will conduct the business with decorum free of violence and chaos.

"All Kenyans are waiting for this house to debate on issues. Kenyans are still wondering why these people are bickering," he said.

Minority leader James Orengo, a member of the Senate Business Committee, said the bill will not be rushed and Kenyans would be given the opportunity to contribute their views.

"There was a decision that this bills will be discussed thoroughly, comprehensively and robustly," he said.

Kitui senator Enoch Wambua urged the Senate to engage in a manner that that instills confidence among Kenyans.     BY THE STAR  

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