Senator Okiya Omtatah has condemned the recent MoU between President Ruto and Raila Odinga, calling it a “civilian coup” against Kenya’s Constitution. He emphasizes that the deal undermines parliamentary authority and promotes unconstitutional governance. Omtatah also criticizes the electoral process, advocating for immediate election result announcements to enhance transparency and efficiency.
Senator Okiya Omtatah has publicly condemned the memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed between President William Ruto and ODM leader Raila Odinga, labeling it a “civilian coup” against the Constitution of Kenya. During a discussion on NTV and Nation FM, he stated that the agreement violates Article 3, Clause 2 of the Constitution which prohibits the establishment of a government outside its legal framework, emphasizing the danger of such an arrangement to democratic governance.
Omtatah criticized the MoU for promoting an illegal power-sharing strategy that circumvents Parliament, undermining its established authority. He articulated the essential role Parliament plays in governance, insisting that there should be no need for an MoU when legislative oversight is constitutionally mandated. “Donated power is exercised through Parliament,” Omtatah asserted, reaffirming the necessity of adhering to constitutional protocols.
In addition to his concerns regarding the MoU, Senator Omtatah expressed dissatisfaction with the current electoral system in Kenya. He pointed out inefficiencies in the tallying and announcement processes for election results. He argued that results should be disclosed immediately following voting instead of being delayed at a central tallying centre, criticizing the Bomas of Kenya for causing unnecessary delays in result declaration.
Omtatah concluded by emphasizing the importance of fully implementing Kenya’s Constitution to ensure that governance remains lawful and focused on the people’s interests, urging both the public and Parliament to champion this cause.
Senator Okiya Omtatah’s critique of the MoU between President Ruto and Raila Odinga underscores a significant challenge to constitutional governance in Kenya. He warns that this agreement constitutes a dangerous bypass of Parliament’s authority and calls for immediate electoral reforms, prioritizing transparency and efficiency in vote counting. His appeal for adherence to constitutional processes highlights the need for public and parliamentary engagement to safeguard democratic integrity in the country.
Original Source: eastleighvoice.co.ke
