Parliament formally adopts committee to drive bipartisan process

The National Assembly has formally adopted the bi-partisan committee formed by President William Ruto and Azimio la Umoja One Kenya leader Raila Odinga to address the grievances raised by the opposition coalition during the country-wide demonstrations.

The decision by MPs to adopt the committee follows a communication issued by the House Speaker Moses Wetang’ula, asking the leadership of both the majority and minority parties to formalize the recognition of the bipartisan talks committee in accordance with the Standing Orders of both Houses.

In his communication to the House, Wetang’ula stated that he and his Senate counterpart Amason Kingi are committed to facilitating the work of the Committee as it undertakes this significant task.

The committee is co-chaired by Tharaka MP George Murugara from the majority party and Rarieda MP Otiende Amollo from the minority party.

“Upon the joint resolution by the Houses, we shall authorize the respective Clerks of the Houses to provide the Committee with a secretariat and any necessary logistical support, similar to every other Committee of Parliament, to ensure the effective discharge of its mandate,” Mr Wetang’ula said. 

“We are aware that there is an ongoing debate regarding whether the Committee should also consider conducting bipartisan engagements outside of Parliamentary processes. This is a matter that the Committee may explore and seek ways to incorporate into the joint resolution of the Houses,” he added. 

In the spirit of bipartisanship, the Speaker also encouraged the Committee members to prioritize the interests of the Nation above any other considerations when addressing the presented matters. 

He acknowledged the dedication of the co-chairs and their respective teams in fulfilling the task entrusted to them.

House Leader of the Majority Kimani Ichung’wah said the decision by Parliament to approve the committee will now grant the formal mandate and enable its members to commence their work seriously. 

He also added that the move will also help the team speed up the process of resolving concerns and demands that were raised by both parties and find a lasting solution.

House Leader of the Minority Party, Opiyo Wandayi, on his part acknowledged the delicate nature of bipartisan talks and emphasized the need for careful handling of the matter. 

He highlighted the differing viewpoints regarding whether a Motion is required for the Committee to be operational and called for bridging the gap between these perspectives.

However, Wandayi expressed concern about the prolonged duration of the talks, noting that Kenyans have grown fatigued and many have lost interest. He emphasized the importance of acting swiftly and in good faith.