Senator Okiya Omtatah criticized the MoU signed between President Ruto and Raila Odinga, calling it unconstitutional and a “civilian coup” against the Constitution. He underscored that parliamentary authority must remain intact and called for reforms in the electoral system to ensure immediate result declarations following elections. Omtatah’s statements advocate for adherence to constitutional law and the necessity for parliamentary oversight in governance.
Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah has sharply criticized the recently signed memorandum of understanding (MoU) between President William Ruto and ODM leader Raila Odinga, branding it unconstitutional and a “civilian coup” against Kenya’s Constitution. On a simulcast with NTV and Nation FM, he argued that the MoU, which aims to create a broad-based government, contravenes Article 3, Clause 2 of the Constitution, which prohibits forming a government outside the constitutional framework.
Omtatah remarked, “Tell me where in the Constitution you can get a broad-based government. It’s unconstitutional.” He emphasized that the agreement represents an illegal power-sharing arrangement that circumvents Parliament, undermining its authority and disrupting the government’s proper function. He stressed that, even with the MoU in place, Parliament retains the responsibility to supervise presidential powers and critical government functions.
He questioned the necessity of the MoU by stating, “Why should there be an MOU when you have got Parliament? Donated power is exercised through Parliament.” Omtatah called upon the citizens and Parliament to advocate for the full implementation of the Constitution, ensuring governance adheres to legal frameworks and prioritizes public interests. Additionally, he criticized the current electoral system, noting inefficiencies in tallying and declaring election results, which he believes should occur immediately after voting, rather than at a centralized location like the Bomas of Kenya.
He insisted, “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.” Omtatah’s comments illuminate significant concerns regarding constitutional integrity and electoral processes in Kenya.
Senator Okiya Omtatah has raised critical concerns over the MoU between President Ruto and Raila Odinga, labeling it as an unconstitutional act that undermines Kenyan governance. He has emphasized the importance of Parliament in maintaining checks on presidential authority and has called for immediate electoral reforms to enhance transparency. His remarks serve as a vital reminder of the need to uphold constitutional integrity in Kenya.
Original Source: eastleighvoice.co.ke
