Senator Okiya Omtatah has condemned the MoU between President Ruto and Raila Odinga, labeling it a “civilian coup” against the Constitution. He asserts that the agreement undermines parliamentary authority and stresses the need for proper implementation of the Constitution and improvements to the electoral process.
Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah has expressed strong disapproval of the recent memorandum of understanding (MoU) between President William Ruto and ODM leader Raila Odinga, labeling it a “civilian coup” against the Constitution of Kenya. He contends that the MoU, aimed at fostering a broad-based government, contravenes Article 3, Clause 2 of the Constitution, which strictly prohibits the formation of government outside its established framework.
During discussions on NTV and Nation FM, Omtatah underscored the unconstitutional nature of the agreement, asserting, “Tell me where in the Constitution you can get a broad-based government. It’s unconstitutional.” He further accused Ruto and Odinga of orchestrating an illegal power-sharing deal that undermines the authority of Parliament and disrupts the functional governance of the nation.
Highlighting the importance of parliamentary oversight, Omtatah stated that the legislature must retain control over critical governmental functions, even in the face of the MoU. He asked rhetorically, “Why should there be an MoU when you have got Parliament? Donated power is exercised through Parliament.”
Omtatah also called for the public and lawmakers to advocate for the complete implementation of the Constitution, emphasizing governance must adhere to legal confines and prioritize citizens’ interests. He criticized the current electoral system, pointing out inefficiencies in the announcement and processing of election results.
He proposed that election results should be declared immediately post-voting, rather than being processed at centralized locations, such as the Bomas of Kenya, which often delays the official announcement. “Bomas should not be used as a tallying centre. According to Article 138, Clause 10, it’s about declaring the results… That’s why the IEBC chairman is supposed to just declare the results,” Omtatah explained, emphasizing the need for efficiency in the electoral process.
In summary, Senator Okiya Omtatah has articulated profound concerns regarding the recent MoU between President Ruto and Raila Odinga, deeming it unconstitutional. He underscores the necessity for Parliament to maintain its authority and advocates for reforms in the electoral result declaration process to promote transparency and efficiency. Omtatah’s call for adherence to the Constitution aims to safeguard democratic governance in Kenya.
Original Source: eastleighvoice.co.ke
