Senator Okiya Omtatah has criticized the MoU between President Ruto and Raila Odinga, calling it unconstitutional and a civilian coup. He emphasizes the need for parliamentary authority and the immediate declaration of election results rather than delays at tallying centers like Bomas of Kenya.
Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah has publicly denounced the memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed two weeks ago between President William Ruto and ODM leader Raila Odinga. He characterized the agreement as unconstitutional, referring to it as a “civilian coup” against Kenya’s Constitution. During a discussion on NTV and Nation FM, Omtatah articulated his concerns that the MoU, which calls for a broad-based government, breaches Article 3, Clause 2 of the Constitution, which forbids attempts to create a government outside the constitutional framework.
Omtatah further declared that the arrangement represents an unlawful power-sharing agreement that circumvents Parliament, thereby undermining its authority. He emphasized that Parliament retains essential oversight of presidential powers and governance. He posed a pertinent question: “Why should there be an MOU when you have got Parliament? Donated power is exercised through Parliament.”
The Senator urged citizens and lawmakers to champion the complete enforcement of the Constitution as a means to ensure that governance aligns with legal frameworks and serves the populace effectively. He also criticized the current electoral procedures, particularly the processes surrounding the tallying and announcement of election results, advocating for a more immediate declaration following voting.
Omtatah criticized the use of the Bomas of Kenya as a tallying center, stating that it should only formalize results as per Article 138, Clause 10 of the Constitution. He insisted that results ought to be announced directly after voting, as delays can occur at central tallying locations, undermining the electoral process. “Bomas should not be used as a tallying centre. According to Article 138, Clause 10, it’s about declaring the results,” emphasized Omtatah.
In conclusion, Senator Okiya Omtatah has expressed vehement opposition to the MoU signed between President Ruto and Raila Odinga, labeling it a constitutional violation and an illegal power-sharing deal. He has called for active participation from the public and Parliament to ensure adherence to the Constitution while critiquing the inefficiencies inherent in the current electoral process. Omtatah’s assertions serve as a reminder of the importance of constitutional governance in Kenya.
Original Source: eastleighvoice.co.ke
