Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has called for the urgent passage of the Assumption of the Office of President and Transition of Executive Authority Bill, 2025. This legislation aims to formalize processes for presidential transitions and includes provisions to safeguard the economy during such changes. Mudavadi highlights the importance of planning and regulation, drawing lessons from the late Wafula Chebukati’s experience in leadership.
Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has urged Parliament to expedite the approval of the Assumption of the Office of President and Transition of Executive Authority Bill, 2025. This legislation aims to create formal mechanisms to facilitate smoother presidential transitions following general elections. Mudavadi emphasized the Bill’s provisions for checks against disruptions that might negatively impact Kenya’s economy and public welfare during transitions of executive power.
Drawing from lessons learned during the contentious August 2022 elections, Mudavadi remarked that the Bill will ensure the electoral body’s democratic space is protected throughout the transition. He highlighted the experiences of the late former IEBC chairman Wafula Chebukati, advocating for the Bill to reflect these challenges and promote order and regulation in electoral processes.
He also stressed the necessity for state departments to initiate transition planning before elections, suggesting that preparations like financial statements will benefit both outgoing and incoming administrations. Mudavadi believes that successful transitions should begin with pre-election strategies and continue to inauguration day.
Mudavadi delivered these remarks at Chebukati’s funeral service alongside President William Ruto and other leaders. He acknowledged the challenging yet vital role of the IEBC chairperson, stating, “Some jobs are no ordinary tasks; they are a calling and are a leap of faith since many lives depend on them.”
Furthermore, as Kenya approaches future general elections and the reconstitution of a new IEBC, Mudavadi called for national recognition of Chebukati’s significant decisions during his tenure. He noted that the shortlist for the IEBC chairperson selection has already commenced and expressed expectations for exceptional outcomes from this process, underlining that the strength of institutions depends on their leadership.
The proposed Assumption of the Office of President and Transition of Executive Authority Bill, 2025, aims to improve the processes surrounding presidential transitions in Kenya. By drawing on past lessons, particularly from the 2022 elections, the Bill seeks to mitigate potential disruptions to the economy and governance. Mudavadi’s commitment to strengthening electoral institutions and recognizing the contributions of past leaders signifies a progressive step toward enhancing Kenya’s electoral integrity, ensuring smooth transitions in future administrations.
Original Source: www.the-star.co.ke
