Senator Okiya Omtatah criticized the MoU between President Ruto and Raila Odinga, calling it unconstitutional and a “civilian coup”. He argued that it undermines parliamentary authority and the Constitution. Omtatah urged for constitutional adherence and efficient electoral processes, advocating for immediate election result declarations and questioning the necessity of the MoU.
Senator Okiya Omtatah has criticized the recent memorandum of understanding (MoU) between President William Ruto and ODM leader Raila Odinga, deeming it unconstitutional and labeling it a “civilian coup” against the Constitution of Kenya. While appearing on NTV and Nation FM, Omtatah raised concerns that the MoU, which aims to create a broad-based government, contravenes Article 3, Clause 2 of the Constitution that forbids any government formation attempts outside its stipulated framework.
Omtatah further contended that the deal represents an unlawful power-sharing arrangement which circumvents Parliament, thereby undermining its authority and the effective functioning of the government. He stated that even with the MoU, it is vital for Parliament to maintain its role in overseeing presidential powers and controlling essential government functions. Omtatah questioned the necessity of an MoU when Parliament exists to regulate power dynamics.
In emphasizing the importance of constitutional governance, Omtatah urged both the public and Parliament to advocate for the full implementation of Kenya’s Constitution. He asserted that the governance structure must reflect legal tenets and prioritize the welfare of the citizens. Additionally, he addressed inefficiencies in the current electoral system, particularly concerning the handling of election results, advocating for immediate declarations following voting, rather than relying on central tallying centers which tend to delay outcomes.
Omtatah criticized the use of the Bomas of Kenya as a tallying center, citing Article 138, Clause 10, which strictly concerns the declaration of results. He insisted that the declaration should be straightforwardly formalized and not subject to decision-making at the tallying venue.
Senator Okiya Omtatah’s critique of the MoU between Presidents Ruto and Odinga highlights important constitutional concerns regarding governance and electoral processes in Kenya. His assertions emphasize the need for constitutional adherence, the importance of parliamentary authority, and the immediate declaration of election results to enhance transparency and efficiency in the electoral system. Without proper checks and balances, Omtatah warns, the integrity of governance may be compromised under the guise of broad-based coalitions.
Original Source: eastleighvoice.co.ke
