Senator Okiya Omtatah has criticized the MoU between President Ruto and Raila Odinga, deeming it a ‘civilian coup’ against Kenya’s Constitution. Omtatah highlights the unconstitutional nature of forming a broad-based government and the significance of parliamentary authority. He advocates for immediate election results declaration and urges public support for constitutional adherence.
Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah has voiced strong criticism regarding the recent memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed between President William Ruto and ODM leader Raila Odinga, labeling it a “civilian coup” against the Constitution of Kenya. He argues that this agreement, aimed at forming a broad-based government, fundamentally violates the constitution, especially Article 3, Clause 2, which prohibits creating a government outside of established legal frameworks.
In a simulcast interview on NTV and Nation FM, Omtatah challenged the legitimacy of a broad-based government, asserting, “Tell me where in the Constitution you can get a broad-based government. It’s unconstitutional.” He further contended that the arrangement undermines parliamentary authority and lacks legal grounding, suggesting it constitutes an improper power-sharing agreement that circumvents the legislative body.
Omtatah also reiterated the critical role of Parliament in overseeing presidential powers, questioning the necessity of an MoU when Parliament already exists. He stated, “Why should there be an MOU when you have got Parliament? Donated power is exercised through Parliament.” He urged both the public and Parliament to advocate for the comprehensive implementation of Kenya’s Constitution to ensure governance remains lawful and accountable to the populace.
Additionally, Omtatah raised concerns regarding the nation’s electoral processes, specifically the handling of election results. He proposed that results should be announced immediately following voting and criticized the central tallying process at Bomas of Kenya, which he believes prolongs the declaration of outcomes. He declared, “Bomas should not be used as a tallying centre. According to Article 138, Clause 10, it’s about declaring the results. You don’t make a decision at Bomas, you only formalise it. That’s why the IEBC chairman is supposed to just declare the results.”
In conclusion, Senator Okiya Omtatah’s denunciation of the MoU between Ruto and Odinga underscores a significant debate surrounding the adherence to Kenya’s Constitution. His call for parliamentary oversight and reforms in the electoral process indicates a commitment to uphold democratic governance and legal frameworks. The emphasis on immediate result declaration and constitutional integrity reflects a need for accountability and transparency in the Kenyan political landscape.
Original Source: eastleighvoice.co.ke
