Kibwezi West MP Patrick Musimba
filed the motion, alleging the Speaker ridicules MPs while overseeing House
proceedings. Though the move might not lead to a vote of no confidence, it
might set in motion the process, depending on the issues to be canvassed on the
floor of the House. Surprisingly, members from both sides of the political
divide welcomed the move, insisting that the Speaker has not handled them in a
dignified manner as representatives of the public. “Noting with concern that
the Speaker of the National Assembly has and continues to degrade the character
and ability of the Honourable members of this House through making of
contemptuous, malicious and unfounded allegations against them,” reads part of
the motion. Musimba is particularly irked with the allegations, noting they
have eroded the collective dignity, esteem and honour of legislators in and out
of the House. “Concerned that Muturi in so doing has failed in his
constitutional duty to protect the dignity, honour and integrity of
Parliament,” reads the motion. See also: Man petitions MPs to institute Matemu,
Keino removal It continues: “This House expresses its displeasure and
disappointment in the conduct of the Speaker and censures him. Muturi noted
that Musimba, as directed on Wednesday, had complied with provisions of
Standing Order 87. “I direct that in keeping with practise, this motion will be
the only business in the House for a period of not less than three hours on
Tuesday next week,” said Muturi. But Asman Kamama (Tiaty) prevailed upon him to
allow the matter to be debated yesterday. “Considering that this matter is so
weighty in the House, would I be in order to ask that it be debated now so that
we finish with it once and for all,” urged Kamama. However, Muturi maintained:
“We have considered this matter and demand that the mover be permitted a period
of three days to prepare adequately.” Majority Leader Aden Duale concurred with
Muturi, saying the Standing Orders are explicit. “This will give some of us
time to find reasons for the motion and the people behind everything. We need
to give time to everybody, according to the Standing Orders,” he said. Duale
was in agreement with Musimba’s motion, saying he has not committed any crime
but done exactly what the law stipulates.
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