Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Kenya National Assembly 2008
Kenya National Assembly 2008
NATIONAL ASSEMBLY
OFFICIAL REPORT
Wednesday, 5th November, 2008
PRAYERS
in the USA. I know that his victory will assist to consideration what the hon. Member has just
improve the economic welfare of the people, not said to ensure that we strengthen the surface of
only of the USA, but all over the world. that road to ensure that it can accommodate the
Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, I beg to reply. heavier trucks.
(a) I am aware that the road between Mr. Washiali: Mr. Deputy Speaker,
Mazeras and Kaloleni is in a poor state. However, Sir, I would like to know from the Minister the
the road is motorable. criteria they use in choosing the roads to be
(b) My Ministry will patch potholes this tarmacked, because you will find that we have
financial year under routine maintenance. In roads which are very important to the people -
addition, resealing of this particular section will there is a high number of vehicles that are using
commence in January, 2009. that road - yet they do not consider it for
Mr. Kambi: Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, I tarmacking. For example, there is a road from
appreciate the answer by the Minister. However, is Mumias to the southern part of Mumias called
he aware that, as we speak, motorists from Musanda in my place. It has very heavy traffic
Mombasa to Kaloleni are not using this road but but they have never considered tarmacking that
have diverted to Mariakani-Mavueni Road because road. Which criteria do they use?
of the bad state of the road? What steps is he Mr. Obure: Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir,
taking? Has he factored money for this road in the you will appreciate that the hon. Member has
Budget? taken us from Mazeras-Kaloleni Road in Coast
Mr. Obure: Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, I Province, all the way to Western Province to
was not aware that motorists have diverted to raise a different Question. However, I would
another road because of the very poor state of a like to say that we apply specific criteria. First,
section of this road. But we have allocated some is economic viability of the road, the volume of
money in the first quarter of this financial year, a traffic passing on the road and the classification
total of Kshs7 million. We are in the process of of the road in question. So, these are the
allocating a further Kshs12.8 million to make this criteria, not necessarily scientific, but we are in
section motorable. I am sure that what the the process of reviewing this to ensure that the
motorists are experiencing at the moment will be criteria become as reasonable and as logical as
short-lived and the situation will be rectified possible.
shortly. Mr. Ruteere: Mr. Deputy Speaker,
Mr. Gunda: Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, Sir, between now and January is two
when this road was first constructed, one could
drive from Mazeras to Kaloleni without seeing any
other vehicle. Today, the road is not only very busy
but the type of vehicles that used the road then
were up to seven tonnes. Today there is a cement
factory at Kaloleni and we have trucks weighing 60
tonnes using that road, and that is the reason it has
deteriorated. Could the Minister confirm to the
House that, when they re-carpet it, they will do so
to accommodate the heavy trucks using the road at
the moment?
Mr. Obure: Yes, Mr. Deputy Speaker,
Sir. That is something we are experiencing all the
time. Whenever we do a good road, traffic is
diverted to that road, sometimes heavier traffic
than initially envisaged; so, destruction of the road
takes place on the first day. We will take into
November 5, 2008 PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES 3263
Minister for Lands is not in the House to answer Government Business, the issue we have right
Questions! now is: When do we get an answer for
The Vice-President and Minister for Question No.2 by Private Notice from the
Home Affairs (Mr. Musyoka): Mr. Deputy Minister for Lands? We need a firm
Speaker, Sir, this is applicable to hon. Members, undertaking as to when we will get the answer.
who had been listed to ask Questions this morning, The Vice-President and Minister for
as well as Ministers. Home Affairs (Mr. Musyoka): Mr. Deputy
Mr. Deputy Speaker: Order, Mr. Speaker, Sir, we will look for the Minister and
Vice-President! We are citizens of the Republic of his Assistant and make sure that the Question is
Kenya! This is a supreme institution of this listed for next Tuesday because tomorrow is a
country. Our responsibility is to our country, first public holiday.
and foremost. We are not citizens of the USA! Mr. Koech: On a point of order, Mr.
Much as we appreciate and we are all happy; Deputy Speaker, Sir. From your ruling, you
nonetheless we are a country ourselves. have understood why the Minister for Lands is
not in the House. We cannot avoid to remove
(Applause) the blood from one of our own and pretend that
we are not celebrating. Would I be in order to
So, it is not an excuse for a Minister to be request that the Question asked by hon.
away from his own Parliament, because he is Lessonet be also deferred to another date?
celebrating the victory of another presidential Mr. Deputy Speaker: Order! That is
candidate in another country. the role of the Chair!
The Vice-President and Minister for Dr. Khalwale: On a point of order,
Home Affairs (Mr. Musyoka): Mr. Deputy Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir. It might not be in the
Speaker, Sir, I had it in my notes that Mr. Bifwoli knowledge of the Vice-President and Minister
was supposed to be here to answer this Question. for Home Affairs that this Question is talking
He must be trying to get here. But as my sister, Dr. about 2,000 families who are now homeless in
Kosgey, has also pointed out to me, my friend, Mr. Kangemi Dam Village. Due to the urgency of
Lessonet, is also not here. So, we appreciate the matter, as we wait for the Minister for
that--- Lands to come, could the Vice-President and
Mr. Deputy Speaker: Order, Mr. Minister for Home Affairs undertake to
Vice-President! When hon. Members are not here, accompany me tomorrow so that we visit these
they suffer the consequences because the people at Dam Village in Kangemi who have
Questions are dropped! been living there for the last 19 years? A private
The Vice-President and Minister for developer, who is a friend of this Government,
Home Affairs (Mr. Musyoka): Very well, Mr. was allowed to kick them out.
Deputy Speaker, Sir. My apologies to the House Mr. Deputy Speaker: That is not a
because there is nobody from the Ministry of point of order but, nonetheless, the
Lands. The only Ministry I was aware that it was Vice-President and Minister for Home Affairs
not ready this morning is the Ministry of Transport, will be at liberty to answer that.
because they are saying that the Order Paper was Dr. Khalwale: Mr. Deputy Speaker,
not taken to their Ministry; therefore, they were Sir, and as he comes, allow me to give to [Dr.
not in a position to prepare answers. Khalwale]
Unfortunately, or fortunately, for them, both hon. him an appeal signed by 1,220 men and women
Members are not able to ask the Questions today. who are living in that camp; in the cold. Two
However, I think it is important that I point that primary schools and 12 churches have been
out so that the Clerk's Department will ensure that knocked down. Allow me to give the
Ministries get Order Papers in time. Vice-President this appeal to read. Also, allow
Mr. Deputy Speaker: Hon. Leader of me to give him two Digital Video Discs
November 5, 2008 PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES 3265
personal interests and we are not declaring them. question. We need to reorganise those farmers
However, it is always important that, as hon. if we have their interests at heart.
Members, when we have personal interests, we Mr. Deputy Speaker: Next Question
declare them. We have answered the Question. by Mr. Maina!
The Ministry has a new Minister and an Assistant
Minister who are very capable. We have Question No.268
reorganised most of the sectors, including the
National Irrigation Board (NIB), which is now NUMBER OF IDPS SETTLED
very alert and doing its work. BY THE GOVERNMENT
Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, we have the
estimates for the work that is supposed to be done Mr. Deputy Speaker: Mr. Maina not
at Ahero Irrigation Scheme. It is a total of here? The Question is dropped!
Kshs8,170,000. For Kano Irrigation Scheme, the
estimate is Kshs9.9 million. (Question dropped)
Mr. Outa: Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, I
would like to the tell the Assitant Minister that the Next Question!
National Irrigation Board (NIB) has failed in its Mr. Outa: On a point of order, Mr.
mandate. The money they are talking about has Deputy Speaker, Sir.
been generated in the scheme under what is called Mr. Deputy Speaker: What is your
participatory management with the farmers. The point of order? I hope it is not on the
Government has never given any money for [Mr. Deputy Speaker]
repairing the main and feeder canals. The money Question we have just disposed of!
we have received to maintain the canals was paid Mr. Outa: Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, it
by the farmers to provide what is called Operation is still within---
and Maintainance. As I speak, the NIB receives Mr. Deputy Speaker: It cannot be!
this money but in return, they are not giving the We have passed that now---
services worth the Operation and Maintenance Mr. Outa: But that is too short, Mr.
money paid by farmers. How much money did the Deputy Speaker, Sir!
Ministry allocate to the project in 2007/2008 for Mr. Deputy Speaker: Mr. Outa, it is
maintaining the main canal and pumps in the not too short! You had ample time to seek
irrigation scheme in order for the farmers to get clarifications, to ask supplementary questions
enough water for irrigation? and all that. We have gone to the next Question
Mr. Kiunjuri: Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, it and business continues.
is true that a participatory programme has been put Next Question, Mr. Affey!
in place. Farmers and us come together in order to
maintain Operation and Maintenance. I have said Question No.395
here that this project is only operating at 30 per
cent. There is no way you can expect a project RELAXING OF EMPLOYMENT REQUIREMENTS
operating at 30 per cent to be self-sustaining. I FOR KENYANS IN ASAL REGIONS
have said clearly that this is due to political
interference. I thought the hon. Member would Mr. Deputy Speaker: Mr. Affey not
attempt to question me on that fact but because he here? The Question is dropped!
did not, that tells you it is true that there is political
interference. It is also true that there are personal (Question dropped)
interests in this matter. Kenyans are suffering and
we cannot allow the leadership of this country to Question No.413
continue politicking instead of taking the necessary
action. I would wish that we deal with the political WITHHOLDING OF UNCLAIMED FINANCIAL
3268 PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES November 5, 2008
ASSET BY FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS the House to this fact during the Budget
Speech. So, when the hon. Member was asking
Mr. M'Mithiaru asked the whether the Minister is aware, actually, it is the
Minister for Finance:- Minister who made the Member aware that
(a) whether he is aware that there is a serious situation. A task force has
financial institutions in Kenya hold been formed to look into this. They have
billions of shillings in unclaimed already produced a preliminary report giving a
financial assets; breakdown of all the issues. That report will
(b) whether he is further aware that soon be laid on the Table. It will give the extent
widows, orphans and other and the breakdown of the amounts owed to
dependants have suffered due to wananchi who are suffering.
lack of a formal mechanism to
reclaim the funds; and, Mr. M'Mithiaru: Mr. Deputy
(c) what action he is taking in Speaker, Sir, I am suprised that the Assistant
order to resolve this matter. Minister says that it is the Minister who brought
The Assistant Minister for Finance (Dr. this matter to the attention of the House. If they
Oburu): Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, I beg to reply. knew about it, why would the Ministry go out
(a) Yes, I am aware that financial to secure some Kshs16 billion for the Port of
institutions in Kenya hold billions of shillings in Mombasa? If they knew that there is a cool
unclaimed financial assets in the region of Kshs38 minimum Kshs38 billion, then they were not
billion. serious enough to pursue this issue!
(b) Yes, I am further aware that widows, Dr. Oburu: Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, I
orphans and other dependants may have suffered do not understand the question! The Minister
due to lack of an appropriate mechanism to reclaim drew the attention of the House---
the funds. Mr. Deputy Speaker: There is a
(c) In March, 2008, a task force was question you have not answered! The hon.
constituted to look into the issue and make Member asked you whether these financial
approporiate recommendations. Its findings were institutions will plough back that money into
discussed with stakeholders on 30th October, their profits after two to three years. You did
2008, and I am, therefore, waiting for the final not give a direction on that.
report in order to act on it. Dr. Oburu: Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, I
Mr. M'Mithiaru: Mr. Deputy Speaker, have said that all the stakeholders were
Sir, the Assistant Minister has made an attempt to involved in a task force which was to look at
answer the Question. However, the Kshs38 billion the issue in depth and give recommendations on
that he says is held by the financial institutions is a the way forward with regard to these funds,
terrible under-statement. I am aware that in most which have almost disappeared within the
of these financial institutions after about two to financial institutions. It is a grave matter which
three years, if the funds are not claimed, they write cannot be handled without proper investigation.
them back to their profits and distibute the money Mr. Deputy Speaker: Given the
to the shareholders. This is depriving the ordinary gravity or the greatness of the matter, are you
Kenyans their rightful shares. Could the Assistant giving an undertaking to this House that you
Minister give us a breakdown of this Kshs38 billion are going to avail that information?
in order of the financial institutions wherever they Dr. Oburu: Yes, Mr. Deputy Speaker,
are? Sir. This is what the Minister said during the
Dr. Oburu: Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, the Budget Day:-
amount which can be determined is the Kshs38 "Institutions licensed under the
billion. However, this issue is so serious that it is Banking Act do, from time to
the Ministry of Finance that drew the attention of time, accumulate funds or other
November 5, 2008 PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES 3269
financial assets which, for one mechanism to recover this money, and that is
reason or another, have not been why the task force has [Dr. Oburu]
claimed by their customers or been established to recommend relevant laws
depositors. The funds, or assets, which will be brought before this House, so
finally remain with the institutions that formal institutions or mechanisms can be
while the beneficiaries continue to established in order to deal with this situation.
suffer. In order to address these That will come to the House very soon. The
challenges, I have constituted a draft report is already here, but I am not tabling
task force consisting of it because it is in draft form, but it will soon be
stakeholders in the financial sector brought here. The relevant laws to make this
to look into the matter with a view matter formal will be brought to this House.
to establishing the magnitude of the Mr. K. Kilonzo: Mr. Deputy Speaker,
unclaimed financial assets currently Sir, the Assistant Minister has given a figure of
being held by these institutions, and Kshs38 billion as the money which is being held
propose the way forward, by the financial institutions. In most cases, the
including the amendment of figures which are given exclude the monies held
relevant laws to ensure that these by the Deposits Protection Fund (DPF). Could
unclaimed financial assets are in he confirm to this House that the figure he has
safe hands and the beneficiaries are given includes the money which is held by the
paid when they resurface". DPF? If so, how much is held by the DPF?
Mr. Deputy Speaker, this means that there This is part of depositors' money.
are beneficiaries who have not claimed these funds Dr. Oburu: Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir,
and the institutions take advantage of the these are unclaimed funds, which were
unclaimed funds. deposited by investors in the financial
Mr. Ethuro: Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, institutions. So, the extent of investment in the
while I appreciate the answer from the Assistant DPF is not yet established. We do not know
Minister and, indeed, we will be looking forward to whether it is part of it. What we have
the detailed report. If you look at part "b" of the established is that the actual deposits in those
Question, it says that there is lack of a formal banks and financial institutions amount to
mechanism to reclaim the funds. The Government Kshs38 billion.
is prone to setting up commissions or committees Dr. Eseli: Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir,
to sort out pending bills, but they have not done so. could the Assistant Minister confirm to this
Now, they are setting up another committee to sort House whether that committee's mandate is
out this matter. That means that there is no system going to include the DPF and the Pensions
in place to ensure that the financial institutions Department? A lot of that money is held by
secure the dependants in writting and that another those two institutions. The families need to
body does supervision. The Assistant Minister is know.
saying that, that was said in the Budget Speech, Dr. Oburu: Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, I
which was in June and now we are in November. did not get the question.
In the meantime, could he issue an executive order Dr. Eseli: Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, I
to ensure that future engagements by these wanted the Assistant Minister to confirm
financial institutions have a formal mechanism whether the mandate of the committee is going
through which they will be reporting to the Central to extend to the DPF.
Bank of Kenya (CBK), or to the Ministry, so as to Dr. Oburu: Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, I
monitor the process on a regular basis, for example have read out to you what was read out by the
after every three months? Minister. The mandate of the committee is so
Dr. Oburu: Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, I comprehensive that it covers all stakeholders
agree with the hon. Member that there is no formal like the Retirement Benefits Authority (RBA),
3270 PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES November 5, 2008
Sir, the land has already been acquired. A feasibility appreciate the questions raised by the hon.
study was carried out. Now, what remains is to Member for Naivasha. One of our major
conclude negotiations for funding. We hope that, priorities, when we are undertaking road
that will be done very soon. works, is to consider the question of safety.
Mr. Gunda: Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, That is the topmost priority in the Ministry's
could the Minister confirm whether the fly-over is order of priorities to ensure that pedestrians,
for vehicles or for people? We know that many motorists and everybody using the road is safe.
fly-overs that have been constructed are not being We are undertaking constant review of the
utilised by the people. accident spots around the country, and we will
Mr. Obure: Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, we take appropriate action as necessary to ensure
are not talking about a fly-over just for pedestrians. that the lives and safety of the general public
We are talking about an interchange where the are guaranteed.
traffic is properly guided to avoid the kind of Mr. Chepkitony: Mr. Deputy
accidents that the hon. Member is concerned Speaker, Sir, that particular spot is known to be
about. very notorious for accidents. The Minister has
Mr. Bett: Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, while avoided to being speficic on when the work will
thanking the Minister on what is going on along be done. He has only said that they are
that section of Nairobi- Mombasa Road - which negotiating for funds. Could the Minister give a
runs from Embakasi to Machakos - I want to ask time-frame with which he will construct that
the Minister whether he is satisfied that, that fly-over?
contractor is on time. It seems to us - as users - Mr. Obure: Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir,
that he is taking too long on that road. If he is I know that there is general concern, not just by
satisfied, when will it be completed? Members of Parliament, but also by the general
Mr. Obure: Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, the public at large, about the Machakos Junction
particular contractor was awarded that project black spot. However, I want to say that all the
through a very competitive process. It was preparatory work has been completed. The land
established that he has the capacity to undertake has been acquired and the necessary
the works he was assigned to undertake. However, preparations have taken place. What we are
I would like this august House to know that there doing at the moment is to negotiate with our
were a lot of challenges along the way. Some of partners for funding. That is because it is a huge
them have been cleared while others are project. As I said, it is part of the bigger
outstanding. That is partly why the project was project. It is not possible for me to say when it
delayed. But I am confident that the contractor has will be completed because negotiations involve
the capacity to undertake that work. He is under more than oursleves. It involves other parties. I
constant instruction from the Ministry to ensure cannot unilaterally say when those negotiations
that he catches up on lost time. We are sure that, will be concluded because that will be
that project will be completed. dictatorial on my part. But I would like to say
Mr. Mututho: Thank you, Mr. Deputy that progress is being made. I am confident that
Speaker, Sir. It is gratifying to hear that they are we will be undertaking those works very soon.
going to construct that fly-over like the wonderful I cannot tie myself to a [Mr. Obure]
one they did at Naivasha. However, there are still specific date at this moment because other
very many other black spots like Kinungi, where parties are involved.
78 people have died. Those are pedestrians who Mr. Ethuro: Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir,
tried to cross the road. In actual fact, the fourth while I appreciate the good answers from this
person was killed by a vehicle belonging to this good Minister, he has confirmed that the land
august House. Are there plans to take care of those for the construction will be acquired. I am just
other black spots? wondering which mode of acquisition he is
Mr. Obure: Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, I going to employ. Is it like the one along Thika
November 5, 2008 PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES 3273
constituent college of the University of Nairobi. students. Over 100 students were admitted to
We have appointed the Principal, who is now in this University. One year down the road, they
charge, but on the issue of the Chairman and the are yet to start their studies just because the
Vice-Chairman, we are having consultations with Council is yet to be put in place. Somebody is
the Office of the President, so that this is finalised. sleeping on the job. The Assistant Minister
The Chairman, together with the Vice-Chairman cannot get away with this one. He is not even
and the other members of the Council will be telling this House when the Council will be put
appointed, so that this university can operate in a in place in order for these students, at least, not
legal way. to lose the second or the third year.
Dr. Eseli: Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, this is In his own words, the Kenya
very sad. Students have been admitted to Polytechnic University is a constituent college
university, others have started their studies while of the University of Nairobi. Why can the
these ones have not started theirs. The Assistant mother university Council not oversee this
Ministser is telling us that they cannot join exercise and transfer the students to the
university because the Council is not in place. University of Nairobi? This is what we want to
Could the Assistant Minister transfer these students know. We do not want to know what happens
to other universities, so that he does not delay their between them and their appointing authority.
learning any further? They are not getting younger. Mr. Deputy Speaker: Hon. Assistant
They are getting older! Minister, the lives and the future [Mr. Deputy
Mr. Kamama: Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, I Speaker]
take the comments made by the hon. Member very of Kenyan youth is involved in this. Over 100
seriously. I know that these students are actually students is not a small number. Think of one of
suffering. However, I would like to confirm to the them being your son or your daughter; we, as
House that negotiations on this matter are being Parliamentarians, should actually conduct
finalised. The full Council will be in place very ourselves well. Can you give a definite answer
soon. What Dr. Eseli has said about the transfer is on this? Or, give an undertaking to the House
not possible, because of inadequate bed capacity. that you will come back at a given date and tell
In the meantime, the issue is being handled in the the hon. Members whether the Council will
most appropriate way. have been constituted and when the students
Mr. Mwaura: Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, are going to start their studies.
from the information that the Assistant Minsiter Mr. Kamama: Mr. Deputy Speaker,
has given to this House, it is very clear that the Sir, I also sympathise with the situation of the
Ministry has taken one year and three months to students just as you are doing, but we have
think about the composition of the Council. The bureacracy in this country. It is not a secret and
students, their parents and the nation are in agony. everybody knows that we have bureacracy and
Could the Assistant Minister be specific and give systems. I want to confirm to the House that
us a timeframe within which a Coucil will be put in we will keep on reminding the Office of the
place? He should not tell us that this will be done President to fasttrack this issue, so that students
"soon". How soon is "soon"? can start their studies as soon as possible. I
Mr. Kamama: Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, I know that this is an issue that is really sensitive
have confirmed to the House that the Ministry has to most parents and the students.
forwarded the names that are supposed to be Mr. Ethuro: On a point of order, Mr.
appointed to the Council. I do not want to speak Deputy Speaker, Sir. I appreciate his
for the Office of the President. I think vetting is still limitations, and I do not want to go that route.
going on and I hope the Office of the President will But I think there is something that the Assistant
give us an answer very soon. Minister can do. Could he order that these
Mr. Ethuro: Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, students join the other universities, so that they
this House needs to emphathise with these do not lose any more time? If the Assistant
November 5, 2008 PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES 3275
Mr. Deputy Speaker: Order! Order, Mr. Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, the
Affey! We are on Question No.462. President-elect, Mr. Obama, is a son of the soil
Mr. Bett: Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, it is of this country. Every other country in this
disturbing to hear that these children cannot be continent is celebrating the Obama win. It is
admitted into the university because of beds. There only proper and fitting that the country which
are so many furniture shops in town with beds. If he originates from should show the same
the Assistant Minister is unable to procure those excitement, pomp and colour. I, therefore, seek
beds, I am offering myself to receive money from leave of the House that we adjourn to discuss
him and buy the beds for those children to be the issue.
admitted into the university. Mr. Deputy Speaker: Order! Order!
Ms. Odhiambo, Standing Order No.20 says:-
(Laughter) "Any hon. Member may at any
time rise in his place and seek
Mr. Kamama: That is a bit hilarious but leave to move the adjournment
we have beds and beds have to occupy a certain of the House for purposes of
space. I am talking about space. discussing a definite matter of
3276 PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES November 5, 2008
urgent national importance." of the Chair. Those are the rules under the
This means national "Kenyan" importance. Standing Orders of the Republic of Kenya. I do
The election of Senator Barrack Obama--- not know how it is in the American Congress
An hon. Member: It is President Obama! but for the Republic of [Mr. Deputy Speaker]
Mr. Deputy Speaker: President-elect has Kenya, the Chair has given a ruling on this and
not been sworn-in yet. The election of the matter is closed.
President-elect Obama is of utmost national Mr. Affey: On a point of order, Mr.
importance to the United States of America. Ms. Deputy Speaker, Sir. While I appreciate your
Odhiambo, you are a lawyer. You had better be ruling, I also wish to seek the indulgence of the
very careful where you transgress between Chair. Given the mood in the country, this
watching your own sovereignty and what can be morning, quite a number of us failed to ask our
interpreted in some quarters as some form of Questions because of the excitement in the
treason. We appreciate and respect him. We are country. For the first time, we have a leader of
happy and we were looking forward to his a great country in this world whose blood is
election. It is not a matter of urgent definite Kenyan. For that matter, would I be in order to
national importance to Kenya. In any case, whereas request you to allow me to ask my Question
the ruling from the Chair would not have been any since I did not ask it in the morning.
different, you are supposed to approach the Chair Ms. Odhiambo: On a point of order,
at least two hours in advance and give a notice of Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir.
that information. Mr. Deputy Speaker: Order, Ms.
Nonetheless, let us hold our horses. Let the Odhiambo! The Chair of the Kenya National
excitement not make us look like American Assembly is on its feet. So, order.
citizens. We are citizens of the sovereign Republic Mr. Affey, you approach the Chair and
of Kenya. seek if you want a reinstatement of your
Question in the formal manner, practice and
(Applause) traditions of this House. The Chair has got
some communication to make. As far as the
Hon. Members, I think we had better take interest and happiness regarding the elections
note of that and internalise it. We should know that have just been concluded in the United
where our utmost loyalty is. States of America are concerned, this will put
The Assistant Minister for Higher that to rest.
Education, Science and Technology (Mr.
Kamama): On a point of order, Mr. Deputy COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR
Speaker, Sir. I just want to seek guidance from the
Chair on this matter. Considering the fact that even CONGRATULATORY MESSAGE TO
His Excellency the President declared that PRESIDENT-ELECT BARRACK OBAMA
tomorrow will be a national holiday to celebrate
Obama's success, do you not think this is an urgent Hon. Members, as you may be aware,
matter? So many man hours will be lost tomorrow the people of the United States of America
because of this "Obama mania". I seek guidance on have just had a historic election where the son
this matter. of this soil, Barrack Hussein Obama, has been
Mr. Deputy Speaker: Hon. Members, tell elected the 44th President of the United States
me what is so urgent that you really want to of America and the first African-American
discuss? Do you want to discuss the speech of President in the history of that country, please
Obama? What do you want to discuss on this join me in registering and sending this House's
Floor? If it is the celebrations, His Excellency the congratulations to the President-elect Obama
President has made tomorrow a public holiday. for overcoming great odds to emerge
The House is not open to any debate on the ruling victorious.
November 5, 2008 PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES 3277
Indeed, this is a testimony of the John McCain graciously conceded defeat. I was
democratic practice in the United States of among the first Kenyans - as I know many
America that we, in Kenya, can also emulate. I also Kenyans did not sleep but were following the
wish to congratulate his opponent, Senator John outcome of those elections - to congratulate the
McCain, for conducting a dignified campaign and President-elect. While doing so, I also observed
statesmanship in his conceding speech. It is our that the world will now be a safer place under
hope that with this change, the USA and the world the Presidency of Senator Barrack Obama. The
will be placed on a different trajectory and this will world will not continue to observe American
strengthen international co-operation and forge unilateralism. Some of us held the view that the
closer partnership between the USA and other war in Iraq was a mistake because the United
nations in the continent, particularly Kenya. Nations Security Council did not give its
I also wish to bring to your attention that approval. The rest of us in Africa stood in
the President of the Republic of Kenya, His solidarity and said that it was important to have
Excellency President Mwai Kibaki, has declared a UN Security Council whose responsibility is
tomorrow Thursday 6th November, 2008, a public to ensure world peace and security. Be that as it
holiday in honour of the election of Senator may---
Barrack Hussein Obama. Please, join me in Mr. Ethuro: On a point of order, Mr.
thanking his Excellency President Kibaki for this Deputy Speaker, Sir.
early gesture and correctly reading the mood of not The Vice-President and Minister for
only the country but the whole world. On my Home Affairs (Mr. Musyoka): Mr. Deputy
behalf and that of this House, I would like to Speaker, Sir, I am just responding to your
congratulate and give best wishes to Senator Communication from the Chair. I am sure that
Barrack Hussein Obama. my good friend, Mr. Ethuro, can bear---
Mr. Deputy Speaker: Proceed!
(Applause) The Vice-President and Minister for
Home Affairs (Mr. Musyoka): Thank you, Mr.
The Vice-President and Minister for Deputy Speaker, Sir. I am just about to
Home Affairs (Mr. Musyoka): Mr. Deputy conclude. The point I am making is very
Speaker, Sir, while thanking you for that important. There are many of us who hold the
Communication from the Chair, I want to join the view that there is now a real possibility of a
rest of the world and, indeed, all of us - and it is more peaceful world where multi-lateralism, as
understandable that the rest of African Continent opposed to unilateralism, will guide the conduct
and the whole world is celebrating a dawn of a new of international relations under President
era--- As we congratulate the American people and Barrack Obama. We congratulate Senator John
more, specifically, Senator Barrack Obama who is McCain for being graceful and I think we are
now President-elect, it is important to reflect on rightfully in a party mood. We are not the only
the journey that he has travelled so far. When country in the world. There are parties in Paris,
countries get their foreign policy right, a lot of London and even in a place called Obama in
hope can ensue. What I have in mind is the famous Japan. I think we have a right to celebrate. As
Kennedy airlifts of the 1960s when many Kenyans we do, as you said from the Chair, this is a
were, due the friendship with the then Government sovereign country. We know we can learn a lot.
and the late Tom Joseph Mboya, given the To be able to support that blood relation, I
opportunity to travel to the United States of think we owe it to ourselves to make sure that
America as a result of [The Vice-President and we have a peaceful country as Kenyans; a
Minister for Home Affairs] country that will uphold the true principles of
which we now have an African American of the rule of law, democracy and tolerance
Kenyan origin being President-elect. This is between ourselves.
momentous. At 4.00 o'clock this morning, Senator At the beginning of this year, Senator
3278 PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES November 5, 2008
Barrack Obama called me at midnight and told me: otherwise, I can bring a Statement. But I think I
"Mr. Vice President, could you make sure you sort am right in quoting the Standing Orders.
out this problem?" I want to assure him that the Mr. Deputy Speaker: Hon. Members,
problem has since been sorted out. indeed, the Chair has again given direction on
matters that touch on our own national
(Several hon. Members stood up) security. There is no way that any dignified
sovereign state can discuss the worst of its
Mr. Deputy Speaker: You are all out of Intelligence Service and defence forces. That is
order! matters touching on its defence in the manner
Next Order! Order! Hon. Members, when that seems to be taking shape in this House.
the Chair makes a Communication from the Chair, Hon. Members, this matter is with the
no debate follows. The Chair has ruled on that. Committee and even if it was to come to the
Whereas we apreciate that we are all excited, we plenary of the House, it would be done in
celebrated victory last night. There is no debate camera. That is the tradition. So, under the
about that. However, indeed, we have procedures Standing Orders, Mr. Minister, you are under
and an instutution to respect. no obligation to bring a Ministerial Statement in
Next Order! this House until the matter is concluded and the
right procedure is followed in protecting our
POINT OF ORDER own national security.
The Minister for Foreign Affairs
DESTINATION OF HIJACKED (Mr. Wetangula): Thank you, Mr. Deputy
UKRAINIAN SHIP Speaker, Sir. Indeed, the Statement I was going
to bring was going to be a one-line statement. I
Dr. Khalwale: On a point of order, Mr. was going to bring to the attention of the
Deputy Speaker, Sir. I notice that the Minister for House the provisions of Cap.6, Section 18(3),
Foreign Affairs, Mr. Wetangula, is here. For two which is very clear.
weeks, he has been avoiding to bring to this House Mr. Deputy Speaker: Order, Mr.
a Ministerial Statement in respect of the cargo ship Minister!
that was hijacked on the high seas of the Indian The Minister for Foreign Affairs (
Ocean. I request him to respond. Mr. Wetangula): I am just fortifying what you
Mr. Deputy Speaker: Hon. Wetangula, have said, Mr. Deputy Speaker. The law is very
you gave an undertaking to this House. clear and if you demanded that I bring a
The Minister for Foreign Affairs (Mr. statement, I was going to do it and fortify your
Wetangula): Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, first of all, it argument.
is unfair for Dr. Khalwale to [The Minister for Mr. K. Kilonzo: Mr. Deputy Speaker,
Foreign Affairs] Sir, I am getting disturbed by the way we are
say that I have been avoiding to issue a Ministerial doing business in this House. You stood up and
Statement. I have not avoided. I cannot avoid my ruled that the next Order be read out. The
responsibilities. I have been travelling and now, I Clerk-at-the-Table did so. We have flauted our
am back. I would like to seek your guidance. This own rules and gone back to discuss Ministerial
matter is before a Committee of this House, the Statements.
Foreign Relations and Defence Committee. Indeed, Mr. Deputy Speaker: Order, Mr. K.
yesterday, I appeared before the Committee and Kilonzo, when an hon. Member rises on a point
engaged in exchange of views on the same issue. I of order, whether we were to move to the next
think under our Standing Orders, the matter is Order or not, there is an assumption that there
stopped from being discussed on the Floor of the is something that the hon. Member wants to
House until the Committee concludes its findings draw the attention of the House to. That is
and brings the report to the House. If you direct what has happened.
November 5, 2008 PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES 3279
Mr. Ethuro: On a point of order, Mr. that is crucial to the development of a nation is
Deputy Speaker, Sir. the confidence among the people. It is the
Mr. Deputy Speaker: Order, Mr. Ethuro! inspiration among the people. It is the spirit of
You are out of order! optimism to go forward. We have to appreciate
Next Order! that, as a House, we are very encouraged by
what has happened in the USA. The country is
MOTIONS very excited. That is very important. It is a way
of giving encouragement.
INTRODUCTION OF BILL TO Therefore, Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, as
AMEND SECTIONS 58/59 I contribute to support this Motion, let me say
OF THE CONSTITUTION that towards achieving Vision 2030, we need
the flagship that has been documented to be
THAT, this House do grant leave stated clearly in the agenda of the supreme
to introduce a Bill to amend organ of law making and policy state in this
Sections 58 and 59 of the country. The Vision 2030 flagship include areas
Constitution of Kenya to provide of enterprise that hedge on new creativity. For
for the National Assembly to instance, it has flagships on the youth issues; the
control the calender of business in issues of agriculture and for reasons, the
the House. pending Government agenda, including the
Coffee Bill that will ensure that we have global
(Mr. Ethuro on 29.10.2008) instruments and benchmarks that are necessary
to ensure that, that cash crop is marketed, its
(Resumption of Debate interrupted production well managed and that leadership in
on 29.10.2008) Africa is good. That also relates to all other
sectors in the agricultural sector.
Mr. Deputy Speaker: Who was on the Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, the livestock
Floor? Hon. Murungi had seven minutes. Is he in? policy is pending in this House. Again, we
Proceed, Mr. Kabando wa Kabando! should look at areas that will create a wider
path to ensure that investments that
The Assistant Minister for Youth traditionally did not bring a lot of benefits to the
Affairs and Sports (Mr. Kabando wa Kabando): people, do bring unprecedented benefits. We
Thank you very much, Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir. I have pending business on Information,
rise to support this Motion, which is very timely Communication and Technology (ICT); the Bill
and well considered. that seeks to entrench ICT as a platform for
Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, having the change and development. In this country, we
opportunity, as a House, to control our own know that tourism is a key sector that brings in
calender and ensuring that we prioritise the agenda foreign exchange and creates employment.
of the House--- That agenda should be in the Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, the Tourism
control of the representatives of the people. That is Bill is pending in this House. That Bill is aimed
very important. to promote the tourism policy to ensure that the
Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, before I proceed, sector is professionally managed, realizes
perhaps, I should take this opportunity, as the multiplied benefits and that the nation itself
Member of Parliament for Mukurweini, to benefits more fundamentally from that sector.
congratulate the President-elect, Obama. Indeed, Therefore, to have the opportunity, as a House,
even though the Chair did made that ruling, it is to control our calendar will be a basic
important to notice that this matter is of serious responsibility. It is basic because this House has
importance. a strategic plan. Hon. Members are required, at
Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, one of the issues the constituency level, to have strategic plans;
3280 PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES November 5, 2008
is important that we control our calender. institutions that exist there enabled the people
However, it is also important that as we control of Zambia to realise their democratic rights. I
our calender and celebrate the victory of Mr. cannot say the same situation applies to our
Obama, to also say in one voice that we do not go country. We all know what happened at the
back to our cocoons, or ethnic groups. We should beginning of this year and it was as a result of
not even go back to our region-based political weakening of institutions over years of an
parties or petty platforms of alienation and imperial presidency, where power was
demarcation. That is why we are also courageously concentrated in the presidency. In the process,
saying that if anybody has committed a crime in there was a gradual weakening of other
this country, whether that person is an hon. institutions, resulting in an overbearing
Member, a party leader or whoever it is, they Executive and a feeble Judiciary. The Electoral
should carry their cross, because it is important for Commission of Kenya (ECK) that was not
them to learn from the lessons emanating [The independent made possible the violence that we
Assistant Minister for Youth Affairs and saw. As we speak today, we are a country in a
Sports] crisis. We are in a crisis in the sense that our
from Chicago in the USA. They should not go to institutions are in a crisis to the extent that
their tribal group and say that they need to enjoy Kenya almost became a failed state. Therefore,
impunity and immunity from law. Take your for a Motion like this one, I must congratulate
responsibility and if you committed any crime in my hon. friend, Mr. Ethuro, for bringing it. I
the name of political power or party, pay for it! must also congratulate Messrs. Keter,
With those few remarks, I beg to support. Oloo-Aringo and all those who attempted
Mr. Wamalwa: Thank you very much, before him to bring this Motion, so that we can
Mr. Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir. This strenghthen the only institution.
morning, history was made when a young man was Mr. Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir, I
elected to the highest office in the USA. dare repeat that this is the only institution in
Kenya today that has the confidence of the
(Applause) Kenyan people. In recent results, where polls
were taken, indeed, the Speaker of the National
Mr. Obama beat two veteran senators: The Assembly, was the only leader of an institution
Senator of New York, Mrs. Clinton in the who got the highest endorsement of the Kenyan
primaries and this morning he beat the Senator of people; Seventy per cent of Kenyans indicated
Arizona, Mr. McCain, to become the President of that they have confidence in the Speaker and
the USA. We are celebrating because he overcame the Tenth Parliament. Therefore, we must, as
great odds, and as we speak, he has become the hon. Members of the Tenth Parliament, support
leader of the free world. He could only do so this Motion to strengthen this House by
because of institutions. Great institutions that have ensuring that Parliament has an independent
been established over 200 years by the American calender controlled by none other than
people to embrace democracy. That is why a Parliament itself. Indeed, we talk of the
young man who, in spite of his age and supremacy of Parliament, but it cannot be a
inexperience, in spite of the colour of his skin, his supreme organ if it operates at the beck and call
tribe and descent, was able to win the elections that of other institutions. We do not know when it
were truly historic. shall be convened or when prorogation shall be
Last Sunday, I also witnessed the swearing ordered. It is a matter of vital national
in of the President of Zambia in Lusaka, His importance that we ensure that the amendments
Excellency, Mr. Banda, and though the victory was proposed to Section 58 and 59 of the
narrow, only 30,000 votes separated him from Mr. Constitution of Kenya are effected and
Sata, the opposition leader, there was no violence. Parliament is able to have a fixed calender and
There was peace in Lusaka and Zambia; the operate independently.
3282 PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES November 5, 2008
I believe that we are making great progress the comprehensive review is being done". Let
in this nation. I can say that yesterday this House us go step by step. By the time we get there,
passed the Bill for the Constitutional Review, we will have dealt with the essential sections of
setting a road map [Mr. Wamalwa] our constitution.
that will, at the end of the day, put the review of I really support what others have
our Constitution back on track. But still, we have supported, including the Law Society of Kenya
had several attempts at this. For several decades (LSK) about an incremental amendment of our
since the 1990s we have attempted to give Constitution.
Kenyans a new Constitution, but we have not Mr. Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir,
succeeded. Indeed, even after this road map, we we do not have to wait. It is a long journey. We
are not sure that Kenyans are going to get a new can go step by step and let us support this
Constitution within one year as was promised. But Motion so that we begin dealing with Sections
the surest way is not to wait for a day when a 58 and 59.
miracle will happen and we give this country a new Mr. Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir,
Constitution but to start, block by block, working there are also other sections that need urgent
on this Constitution; doing what we did at the attention like Section 42. This is to allow for
beginning of this year in March when we amended constituencies boundary review. That does not
our Constitution to introduce, and give effect, to have to wait. We also have issues touching on
the National Accord. We have, today an independent candidates in Section 34. There is
opportunity - we do not have to wait to embark on the issue of dual citizenship in Section 97. We
this journey. We have the opportunity to deal with do not have to wait. Indeed, as we begin this
Sections 58 and 59 and we can do that through this journey today, we want to ask ourselves
Motion. whether we can put our institutions back on
Mr. Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir, we their feet. The first and foremost institution that
also have the situation at the ECK. We do not have remains intact is this Parliament and this is
to wait for a comprehensive review of this where we must begin. We must ask ourselves
Constitution. We can, after dealing with Sections whether we can have a new Electoral
58 and 59, deal with Section 41, because Kenyans Commission of Kenya (ECK) that can
have spoken, the Gallup opinion polls have command the confidence of all Kenyans. We
indicated, Kriegler has spoken that, indeed, if there must be inspired by the words of Barrack
is an institution that has suffered the loss of Obama who said: "Yes, we can". We can do so
confidence, it is the ECK. We do not want to wait without waiting for a year or two to deal with
for a year to deal with it. After we clear with this these issues in the manner that Mr. Ethuro has
Motion by Mr. Ethuro, I think the next Section of proposed. We can look at the Judiciary because
our Constitution is Section 41. it is in crisis. When you hear lawyers putting
The other institution that has suffered loss petitions to the President that they have lost
of confidence is the Judiciary. We had the chaos at confidence in the Chief Justice, then we must
the beginning of the year because the aggrieved realise there is a crisis.
parties had no confidence in our Judiciary. They Mr. Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir,
could not have grievances addressed by the these are issues that cannot wait and we do not
Judiciary and, therefore, they took to the streets. have to wait at all. I would like us to appreciate
Look at what it has cost this country! We do not the words of a professor of law, Professor
have to wait. We have to start looking at Sections Weeramantry who wrote a book: The Law in
60, 61, 62 and 68 of our Constitution, so that we Crisis. The good professor
deal with the issue of the Judiciary after the ECK. [Mr. Wamalwa]
These are areas that we need to start applying our indicated that many a times in the human
minds to. We do not have to wait for the magic history, great societies have collapsed because
wand to say: "Now, the road map is ready! Now, of failure to realise crisis situations that
November 5, 2008 PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES 3283
operated in them. We must begin by asking given no opportunity by the powers that be.
ourselves: Is the crisis situation in Kenya such as They did not have the authority to decide when
the good professor talked about? If we do so, we the elections would take place because they
should start by dealing with the institutions. never knew themselves when they would
Thank you, Mr. Temporary Deputy announce when we would have to go to the
Speaker, Sir. I support this Motion. polls. That is why there were many challenges
The Assistant Minister for Higher in court. We have heard several times when
Education, Science and Technology (Dr. people had to go to court to challenge
Mwiria): Thank you, Mr. Temporary Deputy situations that had been made regarding even
Speaker, Sir, for giving me an opportunity to the date for elections and the reconvening of
support this very important Motion by hon. Parliament.
Ethuro. This is a matter that has been spoken about Mr. Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir,
in the last few parliaments and it is very the point has been made that a lot of this has
unfortunate that during the last Parliament, because got to do with the structures. That we have to
of partisan type of politics which were organised have structures in place so that it is never about
around certain political parties, which also individuals and people belonging to certain
happened to be ethnic, we were not able to deal political parties but it is about structures being
with a lot of important matters that would have in place that govern the way that we make
been for the interest of us as Parliament but the important political decisions.
people of Kenya as a whole. So, we lost the Mr. Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir, in
opportunity to make a lot of important changes this regard, therefore, we also need to see
because of the way we thought of ourselves and ourselves as depersonalising. You know,
cocooned ourselves in our tribal political making it not a personal matter to decide when
organisations. we open parliament, when we decide to
Mr. Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir, in the announce the date that we have to go to the
US, they already know when they are going to polls and it should not be a matter of the ethnic
have the next elections for the President but they group or the political party that the person in
also know when their parliament is going to be power belongs to because they then have to
opened. For us, the problem has been that we have make decisions in favour of everybody else but
personalised a lot of these decisions. It is a not their opponents.
question of not being transparent and not wanting Mr. Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir, as
to say the truth about the way we want to do our we make those changes, we also need to make
business so that it goes to a point where even the changes that will make it possible for us to have
President would set the date of elections or say: other relevant dates. For example, already the
"when I am going to prologue Parliament, is going Americans know when Barrack Obama is going
to be my secret weapon". President Moi said that to be sworn in. He is not going to be sworn in
all the time and it was his way of not being very just tomorrow or the day after or in some place
open with the Kenyan people and potential after some [The Assistant Minister for
Members of Parliament in terms of giving us that Higher Education, Science and Technology]
opportunity to decide our trade as parliamentarians very thick arrangements. The date is known
and Kenyans. and we again have experienced this several
So, when you do not have that times of our previous government where it is
transparency, it means that there are certain issues like a guarded secret when and where the
that you want to cover up in terms of wanting to President is going to be sworn in. That creates
prepare to rig. Covering up in terms of not a lot of problems and I think from our own
allowing for enough time for preparation of experience of the last few governments, we
elections so that even the ECK is not ready. We could have avoided a lot of trouble if there was
may blame them but also, sometimes, they were a lean time between the day elections are
3284 PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES November 5, 2008
announced and the time that we have to swear in ethnic group and how old they are. It is very
the President because you will give room for many difficult to a be a President in this country if you
questions to be answered that are relevant and for are below 50 years of age. It is because there
people to take necessary action in preparation for are structures in place in the US that make it
that day but more importantly for those that want possible for you to come out from nowhere as
to seek redress to know that they can indeed, long as you are good and be President. There
challenge any outcomes. That, we do not give are factors that have a lot to do more with merit
ourselves--- The point I am making is that we are that make it possible for that kind of person to
not talking about the calendar of Parliament but be become President of the most powerful country
seen in the context of other structures that relate to in the world. We should also begin to ask
our Parliament. ourselves questions about what kind of changes
Mr. Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir, the we need to make in addition to controlling the
point also has been made about the fact that it will parliamentary calendar that will make it possible
not be enough to have a calender for our for persons in this country to rise to the office
Parliament if we do not make necessary changes of the President or be able to be a Member of
with regard to the structures that support Parliament not because they have stolen so
Parliament including the ECK. There is also the much by way of public property or because
point that was made by hon. Wamalwa about they are able to cheat their way through but
constituencies boundaries and key decisions of the because there is something that is valuable
Judiciary and for us to have faith in it but more about them.
importantly for ourselves as parliamentarians to It is not going to be possible just
change with the times. That is to change our because we have structures. People and
attitude because it does not matter how many Members of Parliament must be prepared to
reforms we come up with if we do not accept look at merits and support them. They also
those reforms and be part of the biggest advocates need to contribute towards supporting that
of those kinds of reforms, whether or not they candidate. It was possible for Senator Obama,
favour us. So, there are many questions also about not because he had so much money of his own,
our not being partisan with regard to the political but, because ordinary people and young
parties that we support and the positions that we unemployed youths, contributed [The
take because they are ethnic. We have to support Assistant Minister for Higher Education,
certain positions even in this Parliament because Science and Technology]
we stand to gain either directly or indirectly from to that campaign. Is it possible, in this country,
those kinds of arrangements. If we do not want to for a person to be a Member of Parliament if he
be honest ourselves as Members of Parliament and or she does not have a great deal of wealth? It
do not forget that there are certain people that we is not easy! Unless there is a way.
have to owe allegiance to and even the structures Mr. Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir,
that we represent, then it is going to be very we must get out of that tradition where we vote
difficult for us to even get to support some of these for a person just because they come from a
changes. political party that is supported by our tribal
Mr. Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir, I kings and that is the party we have to go
would like to take this opportunity to also through. We have to come out of that and
congratulate Barrack Obama on his victory and select people on the basis of merit and support
also say that even as we look at that victory say it them. That would be the basis for the many of
is possible, it is only possible because there are the changes we would like to see both in this
structures in place in the US that make it possible Parliament, Government and other institutions
for any potential candidate to win, irrespective of outside of politics, including education,
whether they have a lot of money which they have agriculture and so on. Until we begin to respect
gotten legally or illegally, they are from a different merit as the basis for our identifying future
November 5, 2008 PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES 3285
leaders, it is going to be very impossible. It does contributor has supported it. In fact, we are
not matter what kind of structures we have in place risking repeating ourselves to the extent that
for an Obama to come out of the Kenyan some speakers are now introducing extraneous
environment. matters. Am I in order to invoke Standing
I beg to support. Order No.80(1) that the Mover be now called
Mr. Ogindo: Thank you Mr. Temporary upon to reply?
Deputy Speaker, Sir. I rise to support the Motion. The Temporary Deputy Speaker
However, may I first take this opportunity, (Prof. Kaloki): Dr. Eseli, I think you are ahead
on behalf of the people of Rangwe to congratulate of time. We are almost there. Let us give the
President-elect Senator Barrack Obama on his remaining time to hon. Members to complete
historic victory. their contributions in a minute!
Mr. Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir, it is Mr. Ogindo, please, proceed!
very rare that you get somebody of Obama's Mr. Ogindo: Mr. Temporary Deputy
calibre. I think that, that is a gift that nature has Speaker, Sir, thank you for extending your
given to humanity. It is a gift that comes, maybe protection.
once in 50 years. I think it is a privilege for the Mr. Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir,
Kenyan people to share part of Obama's history. It what we have seen before is that Parliament
is on that account that I want to say, "Bravo spends 60 per cent of its time discussing the
Obama!". Budget. Out of that time, we are not able to
Dr. Eseli: On a point of order, Mr. [Mr. Ogindo]
Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir. discuss the Budget exhaustively. I am glad that
The Temporary Deputy Speaker (Prof. this House approved a Bill that seeks to
Kaloki): Could you proceed, Mr. Ogindo! establish a budget law. I want to ask this House
Mr. Ogindo: Thank you Mr. Temporary to come out very strongly and support this
Deputy Speaker, Sir, for your protection. piecemeal Bill that seeks to determine the
Mr. Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir, I also Parliamentary calendar. It is from these little
want to congratulate my predecessors on their very things that we secure our time and
candid contributions towards this Motion. On my independence.
account, it is very timely that we move forward to Mr. Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir,
establish the independence of Parliament. Without you will realise that because of lack of
the independence of Parliament, I think we are not independence, this country has gone through
going to serve the purpose that we are here for. I the worst of its time. What befell this country
want to point out that the impunity we have seen in early this year was a result of impunity as
this country is a function of discretion. It is very exhibited by the Executive, especially totally
important that we reduce discretion. You reduce disregarding the IPPG rules when selecting
discretion by building stronger independent Electoral Commission of Kenya (ECK)
institutions. commissioners. As a result of that, the country
Mr. Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir, this plunged to where it was.
House has the cardinal function of legislation. I Mr. Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir, it
think the architects of most of the institutions that is the responsibility of this House to ensure the
we seek to build are in this House. independence of institutions namely the
Dr. Eseli: On a point of order, Mr. Legislature, Judiciary and ECK. If we do not
Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir. seek to secure the independence of this
The Temporary Deputy Speaker (Prof. institution, then we shall have failed the voters
Kaloki): What is your point of order, Dr. Eseli? and the people we represent. It is on that
Dr. Eseli: Mr. Temporary Deputy account that I support this Motion.
Speaker, Sir, from the time we started contributing Thank you.
on this Motion last week up to now, every The Assistant Minister for Regional
3286 PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES November 5, 2008
for this country. In supporting this Motion, I want not fall. Barrack Obama has spoken about
to note that last year, I was in the USA in North change that we can believe in. I want to
Carolina, where I was speaking to at an encourage [Ms. Odhiambo]
international forum and I informed them that there this country to embrace change that we can
was reinaissance coming from Africa. I did not believe in. One of the changes that we need is
know how much it would be! I was talking about what Mr. Wamalwa has said. We must make
the election of the Liberian President as the first certain changes, even as we await the
woman President in Africa. This year, we can talk comprehensive Constitutional Review process.
about the election of the Rwandan Parliament that One of them is to enhance the number of
has the majority as women. The list goes on and to women in this Parliament. Kenya is going to
top it, is the famous event today of Mr. Barrack receive a lot of attention, but let it not be
Obama, who is the President-elect of the USA. negative because we are the home of the
That is something for us, as Africans, to be proud President-elect of the USA. Let us receive
of and for Kenyans to be proud of. attention for being pioneers and overtaking
That takes me to the second point, which is Rwanda and other countries that have
the issue of sovereignty. I am proud to be a promoted the issue of women rights.
Kenyan, and Kenya is a sovereign state. As a With those few remarks, I beg to
student of International Law, I would like to say support.
that the concept of sovereignty has, in recent years, The Assistant Minister for Defence
received a bashing and, therefore, changed in the (Maj-Gen. Nkaisserry): Thank you, Mr.
light of globalisation. One of the things that Temporary Deputy Speaker, for giving me this
affected it is the migration that has seen a lot of chance to contribute to this very important
people migrating from African countries to the Motion.
West, and Barrack Obama is a product of that First of all, I would like to take this
reality. If you go the USA now, we have many opportunity to commend hon. Ethuro for
Americans who are called Irish Americans, bringing this very important Motion, which is
Hispanic Americans and the list goes on. I want to long overdue. Secondly, I would like to take
proudly say that Mr. Barrack Obama falls in the this opportunity to congratulate the American
category of the ones that are called people for making their decision this morning
Kenyan-Americans. That is in keeping with and elected Barrack Obama as the President of
sovereignty and reality. Therefore, as a Kenyan the United States of America. Thirdly, I would
living in Kenya, I support a Kenyan-American. like to congratulate hon. Obama for being
Mr. Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir, elected as the President of the United States of
coming to the Motion at hand, I want to support it America. In 2006, I had an opportunity to share
because it actually enhances the concept of lunch with the President-elect of the United
separation of powers between the Executive, the States of America at the Tamarind Retaurant. I,
Legislature and the Judiciary. This is an ill that has therefore, cherish the memory of that time.
been in Kenya for a long time, where the Executive Mr. Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir,
continues to wield power over the Legislature, we have the opportunity and freedom to
even though it is meant to be independent. change. This is the time we need to change the
Therefore, if this Motion passes, it will give Constitution so that the power is restored to the
Parliament the autonomy that it needs, which is in people of Kenya. Power should be restored to
consonant with the evolving democratic principles the people of Kenya because Parliament is the
and international practice. I will not give examples centre of the people of Kenya. There are three
due to lack of time. roles of this Parliament. The roles of oversight,
I also want to talk about the challenges that representation and legislation are all combined.
we are facing as a country. For example, at the That gives this House the power on behalf of
beginning of the year we had problems but we did the people of Kenya. Therefore, Section 58 of
3288 PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES November 5, 2008
the Constitution which allows one individual to the Constitution to remove the two Sections
summon the peoples' representatives without their and restore the power to the
wish and will, should be done away with. At the peoples'representatives.
same time, Section 59 of the same Constitution I believe that the democracy that we
dismisses the peoples' representatives that are have fought for, from the time when Section
brought here by the people themselves at the will 2(A) of the Constition was repealed to bring in
of one individual. We have to change. That is the multi-party democracy in this country, is a
freedom to change and that freedom is here. continous process to ensure that Parliamentary
Mr. Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir, the democracy takes root in this country. That is
issue of impunity has actually ruined this nation. the ony way we can remove the impunity of
There is the impunity of the Executive, impunity of corruption. I want to specifically comment on
corruption and impunity of violence. We have to two issues. What happened in this country in
end that impunity for our country to be liberated. I December was not caused by politicians. It was
want to say that we had passed a Motion that caused by people who rigged the elections. If
empowered Parliament to scrutinise the Budget. Parliament was in a position to control its own
That is already a power that has been restored to calender, the rigging of the elections would not
the peoples' representatives. Just imagine what have taken place. Rigging of election was done
happened at the beginning of this year. This by the agents of the Government. Those agents
Parliament was summoned when the country was of the Government should actually be the first
in crisis. That is why I commend my friend hon. people who should have been in the Waki
Ethuro for bringing this Motion, so that it is the Envelope and not the politicians. When that
peoples' representatives who have the power to thing happned, agents of the Government
summon themsleves, and not one particular authorised serving civil servants to act as agents
individual. of political parties. That is the impunity we have
Mr. Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir, on to kill for this country to heal.
the issue of impunity, you realise that the Waki The Assistant Minister for Higher
Report came out very clearly. Of course, there Education, Science and Technology (Mr.
were some flaws in the report. But for us to Kamama): On a point of order, Mr. Temporary
forgive each other, heal this country, know that Deputy Speaker, Sir. With due respect to my
forever, we shall not bring this country back to its good friend, Maj.Gen. Nkaisserry, I heard him
knees like what happened in January, we have got say that some agents of the Government
to carry our own crosses. People must be given the actually participated in rigging and they should
opportunity to defend themselves. We cannot actually appear in that "envelope". Am I in
condemn people unheard. That is why we are order to ask him to give us the list of those
saying that the envelope with Dr. Koffi Annan people who are in the "envelope"?
should be opened. The people of Kenya should be The Temporary Deputy Speaker
told who are in there. People who are in that (Prof. Kaloki): Mr. Kamama, we do not want
envelope should defend themselves. If there is to get out of today's Motion. Maj.Gen.
forgiviness to be given, it should come from Nkaisserry, could you stick to the Motion
Kenyans. So, the freedom to change is here. [The before the House?
Assistant Minister for Defence] The Assistant Minister for Defence
The freedom to change is with the Tenth (Maj-Gen. Nkaisserry): I am not saying that it is
Parliament, to restore the rights, freedom and the agents of the current Government, if my
power to govern, legislate and play our oversight friend got me right. I am saying "the agents".
role. The Tenth Parliament has that opportunity. The agents can be anybody.
Mr. Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir, I The Temporary Deputy Speaker
would like to urge that when this Motion is passed, (Prof. Kaloki): Could you stick to the Motion?
it should be given priority so that we can amend The Assistant Minister for Defence
November 5, 2008 PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES 3289
(Maj-Gen. Nkaisserry): Thank you, Mr. going to be business as usual. I also want to pay
Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir. I will stick to the tribute to the late T.J. Mboya for organising an
Motion. airlift. That was a visionary leader and if he did
Mr. Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir, in not do this, we would not be celebrating the
conclusion, it is important that this Parliament success of our brother, Obama from Kogelo.
unites in ensuring that the constitutional reforms, Kenyans have asked for a new
which are part of this Motion that we are Constitution from 1992 up to this time.
discussing today, will lead towards a new Kenyans have lost their lives in search of a new
Constitution for the people of this country. It will Constitution. We needed a new Constitution
help in healing this country. It is the onus of the yesterday. I am happy that the Grand Coalition
Tenth Parliamen to deliver to the people of Kenya. Government is for a new Constitution. But just
With those few remarks, I beg to support. before we do that, we want piecemeal
The Temporary Deputy Speaker (Prof. legislation. Sections 58 and 59 of the
Kaloki): Hon. Members, I would like to call upon Constitution need to be amended, so that this
the Government side to respond. Mr. Mungatana House can be independent. Just to paraphrase
will respond on behalf of the Government. what Hon. Obama, the President-elect, says,
The Assistant Minister for Medical "change goes to Washington, Washington
Services (Mr. Mungatana): Thank you, Mr. cannot change itself". I want to say that State
Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir. Before I give the House cannot change itself. This House must
Government's response to this Motion, I want to change State House. I want to ask the hon.
donate five minutes to hon. Kamama. Then, I will Members to let us move with speed and
take the rest. encourage hon. Ethuro to come up with the Bill
The Assistant Minister for Higher as soon as possible. We want the House
Education, Science and Technology (Mr. Business Committee to prioritise this agenda as
Kamama): Thank you very much, Mr. Temporary an immediate agenda of the House, so that we
Deputy Speaker, Sir for giving me this time. I also can make Parliament independent.
want to thank my colleague, Mr. Mungatana, for Mr. Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir,
donating the time. we have a good President at this point in time.
Mr. Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir, I At some point in future, we may end up having
wish to fully support the Motion by hon. Ethuro somebody like the late Abacha. You can
that Parliament must actually be imagine what somebody like Abacha can do to
[The Assistant Minister for Higher Education, this country. We do not want this House to
Science and Technology] actually be tossed up and down by a sitting
made independent. It must never operate at the President. We want it to be independent. We
whims of the Executive. But just before I go into also want the principle of separation of powers
the details of my contribution, I also want to join to be looked into. We are told that the
my colleagues in congratulating the President-elect Legislature, the Executive and the Judiciary
of the United States of America, hon. Barrack have separate powers. That is actually not in
Obama, for being elected as the first practice. We know that the calender of
Afro-American President in that country. It was Parliament is decided by the whims of the
really exciting to all of us. It is really an inspiration President. The President can decide to dissolve
to most African children that, indeed, they can Parliament or change its sitting dates. In fact, I
make it. remember a former President who used to say
Mr. Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir, hon. that the election date was his secret weapon.
Obama will bring a lot of changes. I am very sure This issue of a secret weapon must be brought
that terrorism will reduce substantially. I am sure to a stop. The methodology of doing it is by
the entire American foreign policy towards the passing this piecemeal legislation.
Middle East and Africa will be favourable. It is not I think all of us will support this
3290 PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES November 5, 2008
Motion. If we have a Member of Parliament who is stand here on this side of the House to
opposed to it, then we are talking about confidently support this Motion, indicates that
sycophants. That is going to be sycophancy in this we have travelled a long way.
House. We need to support it, whether we are Mr. Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir, it
from the Government side or from whichever side. is good to recall the history of this country.
We do not even have an opposition in this House. When the first President took over, there were
We are all in one Grand Coalition Government. clear attempts at trying to make Parliament not
So, let us support the Motion because nobody is in as strong as it should have been, so that the
the opposition. Executive could control it from outside. One of
With those few remarks, I beg to support the things that happened very quickly with the
the Motion. presidency of the late Mzee Kenyatta was very
The Assistant Minister for Medical quick negotiations to get the Kenya African
Services (Mr. Mungatana): Mr. Temporary Democratic Union (KADU) party and the
Deputy Speaker, Sir, I wish to take this African Peoples Party (APP) to go into quiet
opportunity to thank hon. Ethuro for moving this dissolution, so that the Kenya African National
Motion. This is a constitutional Motion. On the Union (KANU) could have a majority in the
Government side, we are of the opinion that, right House and, therefore, control Parliament. This
now, we are completely committed to getting a enabled the Executive to control Parliament.
new Constitution for this country. Indeed, the We inheritted a bicameral system of
House, yesterday passed the Constitution Review Parliament, but in 1966 there were a lot of
Bill that provides the review path in which we shall negotiations initiated by the Executive, coupled
travel together as a country, towards gaining a new with constitutional amendments, to try and
Constitution. emasculate Parliament. The Constitutional
We, as a Government, support the [The amendments took place and the two chambers
Assistant Minister for Medical Services] of the bicameral Parliament then merged into
view that there should be, indeed, some changes in one National Assembly. The 41 members of the
the way we operate in terms of a calender for Senate, the Upper House then, were then
Parliament. However, I think that it might be better forced to vacate from the Upper House and
if the whole thing comes as one package in terms accommodation was sought for them at the
of a proper constitutional change that we will all National Assembly. That was a process of
own and participate in the making of the same. emasculating Parliament. It was a clear attempt
There will not be a fuss in the event that the hon. by the Executive then to try and make
Member brings a Constitution of Kenya Parliament a weak institution that could be
(Amendment) Bill before the real constitutional moved at the whims of the Executive. It was
change. We will support the independence of not the end of that. Earlier on, under the first
Parliament. presidency of this country, we saw the firing of
I say so because the road that we have the first Vice-President of this country. That
travelled has been long. Today, I stand very proud was against the background of formation of a
as a Member of this Government and in particular political party, the Kenya People's Union
of the Executive, to say that I support such a Bill. I (KPU), that was opposed to the control of
have looked at our history and it is there for us to Parliament by one party system. After the first
see what has been happening since Independence. Vice-President was fired, the second
There has been an inept desire on the side of the Vice-President was appointed in about ten
Executive to take control of Parliament since days. The appointment of the second
Independence. There has been a desire on the side Vice-President in such a short time shows
of the Executive to abuse the principle of clearly that no one was sad about chasing away
separation of powers. Therefore, the road that we people who were threatening the control of the
have travelled has been long. Today, for me to Executive on this House. The Third Parliament
November 5, 2008 PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES 3291
was dissolved on 20th September, 1974. On 8th Government supports this Motion.
November, 1974, the general elections for the 4th Thank you.
Parliament were held. The one thing that happened The Temporary Deputy Speaker
in that 4th Parliament which made negative (Prof. Kaloki): Hon. Members, I will now call
constitutional history in this country on 9th June, upon the Mover, Mr. Ethuro, to respond.
1982, was the enactment of the constitutional Mr. Ethuro: Mr. Temporary Deputy
amendment that converted Kenya into a de jure Speaker, Sir, while I am ready to respond, I
one party state. need your guidance in terms of the time. The
Mr. Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir, what Mover usually responds at the very end and I
we are doing now in terms of trying to travel from can see that there are a few more minutes to go
the first presidency to the second and third and there are hon. Members who are interested
presidency, is that we cannot really complain of in contributing. I do not want to donate my
much constitutional interference in parliament. time. They still have their own time.
Some independence has been gained. We have The Temporary Deputy Speaker
travelled a long path since the time of the first (Prof. Kaloki): You can donate your time to
presidency, the term of Nyayo era [The Assistant one or two hon. Members.
Minister for Medical Services] Mr. Ethuro: Mr. Temporary Deputy
and this term that we are living in. As other Speaker, Sir, I can do that. I am saying that
previous speakers have said, we must consolidate there is still time on your side which you can
the gains that we have made. We must consolidate give to them without me donating mine.
the gains we have made against the Executive so The Minister of State for
that we can say that Parliament is the supreme Development of Northern Kenya and other
organ of the supreme will of the people of Kenya Arid Lands (Mr. I.E. Mohamed): Thank you,
as expressed through their ballot. Mr. Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir. First and
I believe with all my heart that we should foremost, I want to congratulate Mr. Ethuro
support this Motion. As I have said, the for his able leadership in this issue. It has also
Government supports this Motion. The only issue occurred within a period where something
is that we should have an independent calender and momentous has happened in the world. I want
control the way we go and when we come back. to join the previous contributors in
We should all know when our term ends. We congratulating the American people for
should all know who will be the next President or showing the resilience of democracy and the
Prime Minister as we will decide in the faith that we can have in democracy.
Constitution. All Kenyans should know, so that it I think there is a great lesson in what
is not a question of one person knowing. happened in America last evening in which Mr.
Parliament should control its calender. Obama was elected the President of the United
The question that we may need to address States of America. The greatest lesson of that is
ourselves to is: Do we want to do incremental what this Motion is trying to bring about. If you
changes to the Constitution or do we want to have strong institutions, you can have your bad
contain it in the proposed constitutional moments but the country will always triumph. I
amendments that the country needs to travel think we should all support this Motion in order
through? The Government and the Official to strengthen the institutions in our country.
Opposition support this Motion. We would have Mr. Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir, if
preferred a situation whereby we tackle the whole there is one lesson we can learn from Obama
thing together. However, if the hon. Member is being elected as the first African to the
able to bring the Bill before we achieve the whole presidency of the United States of America is
constitutional review regime, then we will be able that courtesy of having very strong institutions
to pass it in this House. that would allow that. We want every hon.
Mr. Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir, the Member, irrespective of their tribes, to be
3292 PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES November 5, 2008
elected anywhere in this country in the future. I House. By controlling our calendar and giving
want to be elected in Central and Nyanza provinces ourselves capacity, we will be able to address
in a few years. That can only happen if we create critical issues that are affecting our people. We
institutions that are strong and robust. For that will be very effective in developing this nation.
reason, I would like us all to support this Motion. That is the only way we can effecively
Parliament is the mother of all [The Minister of implement programmes of this House.
State for Development of Northern Kenya and Thank you.
other Arid Lands] Mr. Muriithi: Thank you, Mr.
institutions and it should, therefore, be Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir. I know I have
independent. It should have its own calendar which a couple of minutes. Therefore, I will go
will ensure more efficiency. Any institution that straight to my point. First of all, I rise to
controls its calender can plan and deliver better. support this Motion. I would like to say that
I also support all the other speakers who this Motion provides us with a unique
said that we need comprehensive constitutional opportunity to really examine the system of
review. We owe it to our country and the future governance that we want in this country. When
generations of this country. There is a great lesson you have a parliamentary system, you have an
to learn from the election of Obama in America. opportunity to bring the Executive to account.
Thank you. If we say that Parliament will have a unique
Mrs. Noor: Thank you, Mr. Temporary fixed term, what happens to that opporutunity?
Deputy Speaker, Sir, for giving this opportunity to I think this Motion will give us an excellent
contribute to this very important Motion. We opportunity to examine whether we wish to
witnessed history being made in the world last stay with a combination of a parliamentary and
night and this morning when Americans elected an presidential systems, or whether we want to opt
African-American who has roots in my motherland for a different system. We want to examine
Kenya, to the highest office in the land. We also whether the checks and balances are working.
made history early this year by signing the peace It is in my view that we could have worked
accord. I know we can still make history by better. Allowing the hon. Member to bring a
passing this Motion. This Motion is very important Bill to this House will provide us with an
because it addresses the fundamental principles of excelent opportunity.
separation of powers. Separation of powers Mr. Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir, I
between the Legislature and the Executive will want to add my voice to those who have
give us the proper checks and balances that we spoken before me and say that we must take
require in this House and outside this House. the opportunity to deal with the comprehensive
External influence and control of this House has constitutional review. That is what we
hindered the implementation of many issues. promised this country. It is not just an isue of
Before we went on recess - and you are my promise. That is what will build a platform for
witnesses - this House had a very important agenda us to move this country into the future. The
before it. Since we did not have control over the idea of a fixed calendar for Parliament must
House, we could not address that important issue. certainly be considereed alongside the question
The sytem structure will set us free. It will give us of whether, in the future, the Government will
the capacity to address our issues and critically be drawn from this House or not. I think that
plan for ourselves. The world, all over, is taking a those are very significant issues that we must
strategic direction in planning, organising, deal with, look at the systems in the world and
implementing and monitoring activities. It is ask ourselves: What will work for this great
reflecting back on crucial issues in the world. This [Mr. Muriithi]
House is not exceptional. We are not working in a nation.
vacuum. We must also critically set out our Therefore, I wish to support.
strategic direction, including the controlling of this Mr. Chanzu: Thank you, Mr.
November 5, 2008 PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES 3293
Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir, for giving me the whole day to walk from Monday, because they
opportunity to support the Motion to create a Bill were peasant farmers, to go and vote. Hon.
to amend the Constitution, so that Parliament can Members should understand me. I will finish
run its calendar. However, before that, I would with the swearing-in. I am talking about how
also like to join my collegues who have spoken the election day was fixed. There is 4th
before me in congratulating the President-elect of November, which is set aside for the actual
the United States of America, Barrack Hussein voting. It is a specified calendar and everybody,
Obama. Those who have watched what has including every Senator and Governor, knows
happened in the last few weeks have seen what it that. Every citizen of America knows when it is
entails in terms of democracy. Those who have time to go for elections and when to campaign.
been criticising opinion polls, they have seen what Remember, you do not have to lose your job in
they mean. Some Kenyans had spoken and said order to campaign. Even Sarah Palin will go
that opinion polls are misleading. However, they back to Alaska as the Govenor. Yes, we can! In
have seen what it means. If you are a good our own small ways, speaking from the Floor
performer in whatever role you are playing of the 10th Parliament, we can.
politically--- I highly congratulate Obama and Hon. Members, especially from the
salute Americans, Black, White and other races, Goverment side, I want to appreciate your
for what they have done in showing the world that support. We have also added that it would have
a leader can come from any community. I also been better if it came through a comprehensive
want to congratulate Kenyans for the support they constitutional reform system. That is all our
have shown. It showed the Americans that we wish. As I said when I moved this Motion, we
were supporting our own. have been waiting for the promise of a new
The Temporary Deputy Speaker (Prof. constitution. We cannot wait any longer. If
Kaloki): I now call upon Mr. Ethuro to reply. there is something we can do in the meantime,
Mr. Ethuro: Mr. Temprary Deputy so be it. In any case, whose responsibility is
Speaker, Sir, I rise to thank all hon. Members who this? Whose responsibility is it? Who has been
have contributed to this Motion. In agreeing, I given the mandate by the people of the
would like to say: "Yes, we can". I cannot deny Republic of Kenya to bring legislation, change
myself this golden chance that my Motion could the Constitution and administer this country
not have come at a better time, than a time when properly, if it is not that side of the House?
the great America has a President-elect who has his They have failed! We are only doing our part as
roots in this great Republic of Kenya. Members representing the people to remind
them that this is good. In [Mr. Ethuro]
(Applause) fact, if you noticed--- I want to thank hon.
Mungatana because he has basically drawn
The only reason why America can have a from his previous portfolio, not the current one
President with roots from Kenya is becauss the of Medical Services of inspecting hospitals and
American Presidential Election System has very dispensaries.
clear principles and doctrines of separation of Mr. Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir,
powers. This Motion is trying to ensure that we where is the Minister for Justice, National
have a calendar of events that will make sure that Cohesion and Constitutional Affairs to give a
the Executive does not monopolise the Legislature. considered opinion? The Leader of
As we celebrate Senator Barrack Obama as Government Business told us last Wednesday
President-elect--- We should know that he is only that he could not answer certain Questions
going to be referred to as President-elect until 20th because he needed expertise and the specifics
January. Their time table is very clear that 4th that can only come from the relevant Minister. I
November, is a day to carry out the elections. It know that hon. Mungatana stepped in, and
has a tradition in rural America. They needed a rightly so, and he did justice to it! I am also
3294 PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES November 5, 2008
sure, because he is recognising that the responsible doing it with the Official Opposition Bill. We
Minister is the Party Leader of NARC-Kenya. are doing it with the establishment of the
Mr. Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir, this Budget Office and we are doing it with the
Motion is asking this nation to trust institutions; Cabinet size! Yes we can!
that no matter how good, how beautiful or how Mr. Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir, I
handsome our presidents may be, they can be rest my case and I beg to move.
subject to mood swings. In fact, if you get one who
may decide one day he is just going to wake up (Question put and agreed to)
and then he realises actually that he has power in
the Constitution, not even in a law! In the INTRODUCTION OF CLIMATE CHANGE AND
Constitution - Section 59(a)! He may prorogue GREENHOUSE EMISSIONS REDUCTION BILL
and, 59(b), he may dissolve! No reasons need to be
given and all 222 Members, both elected and Mr. Bett: Mr. Temporary Deputy
nominated, leaders of this country, can be sent Speaker, Sir, I beg to move the following
home! It is only Ministers who are cushioned. They Motion:-
cannot be sent home immediately. That is why I am THAT, noting with concern
bringing another Motion where we are going to that the earth's climate is now
reduce the Cabinet size--- In fact, it will be a Bill warming up at unprecedented
because the Motion has been passed. I want to rate than ever before; further
ensure that those predatory tendencies by the noting with concern that the
Executive are curtailed once and for all! Inter-Governmental panel on
Mr. Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir, I am Climate Change, a body
excited to belong to the Tenth Parliament! I am established by the United
excited that there is unity of purpose across the [Mr. Bett]
political divide, regardless of whether you are on Nations predicted temperature rises of
the Government side or in the Back Benches! I up to 11.5F by the year 2100
want to thank all the hon. Members who have said: and a sea level rise of up to 23
Our salvation will be our institutions. The inches; alarmed that this is
institution of Parliament is the most supreme projected to cause extensive
institution in this country! Imagine, with the events damage to forests, marine
of early in the year, when the issue of the ecosystems and agriculture;
presidency was being contested, at least, aware that Kenya is already
Parliament was not in contention! So, to what experiencing the impacts of
extent would anybody have trusted the President to climate change; this House
convene this Parliament? If the President realized grants leave to introduce a Bill
that he should not convene Parliament, what would for an Act of Parliament
you have done? Nothing! We would have gone entitled the Climate Change and
back to the streets, killing more people as if the Greenhouse Emissions
over 1,200 dead and more than half a million Reduction Bill to provide for
displaced were not enough! measures to address climate
Mr. Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir, that change; to set targets to achieve
is why we want this institution of Parliament to be a reduction in greenhouse gas
the one that can determine its calender and its job! emissions; promote the use of
Mr. Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir, we renewable sources of energy;
have done it! That is why I like this Motion coming and for matters related thereto
at this time of Obama - yes we can! We did it with and connected therewith.
the Parliamentary Service Commission. We did it Mr. Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir, I
with the Leader of the Official Opposition. We are am, indeed, grateful that I am moving this
November 5, 2008 PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES 3295
Motion at this time, knowing very well that last translates into dealing with
year, former Democratic Party Candidate in the deeply sensitive scientific,
USA, Mr. Al Gore, was awarded the Nobel Prize political and economic concepts
for bringing to the fore the issues of climate and perceptions."
change. Today, another candidate of the That was the UN Executive Secretary of the
Democratic Party, Mr. Obama, has won the body charged with the responsibility of
election in the USA. Mr. Al Gore, unfortunately, introducing rules and regulations on how to
did not win the elections. I congratulate Mr. control emissions of greenhouse gases into our
Obama, on behalf of myself and the people of atmosphere.
Buret whom I represent. Mr. Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir, I
Why am I making reference to the two also found it necessary to read to this House, a
gentlemen? It is because in 1997, a world climate statement by Friends of the International
change conference resolved and introduced the Climate, which says:-
Kyoto Protocol, a protocol intended to be used in "Climate change is no longer
controlling green house gases in the world. Many just an environmental
countries of this world have assented to that [Mr. Bett]
protocol. One country which is emitting the largest issue. It is a looming human
quantity of green house gases, the USA, has not catastrophe."
signed or acceded to that document to this day and That was said by Cathrine Pierce of Friends of
I am hoping that Mr. Al Gore will team up with the International Climate.
Mr. Obama and call the USA to partake in the
signing of this protocol that will, indeed, be useful [The Temporary Deputy Speaker
in cleaning up the atmospheric systems of the (Prof. Kaloki left the Chair]
world.
As I continue, I want to indicate the [The Temporary Deputy Speaker
urgency of this matter and my intention. This world (Dr. Otichilo) took the Chair]
is really in a big probelm as regards climate
conditions of the world. Allow me, therefore, to Mr. Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir,
quote from three important sources. First, the the last quote I want to make is from the
Secretary of the United Nations Framework Chinese. They have recognised the dangers and
Climate Convention, Ms. Joke Waller-Hunter. She the problem we are in and they say in a white
says:- paper prepared by the Supreme Council of the
"Although climate change has Chinese Government:-
happened throughout the earth's "Extreme climate phenomena
history, it has never before occured such as high temperatures,
at the current pace, nor has it ever heavy precipitation and severe
occured because of human drought has increased in
interference. Climate change is a frequency and in density. The
highly complex problem, which has world is in danger".
the potential to impact negatively Mr. Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir, as
on every sphere of life if not I continue, I want to say this: There is no time
checked, yet the inter-changes to waste and to lose. We have to move as
between the earth's climate and quickly as we can as a country and as the world
human-induced greenhouse gases in response to what was originally seen in 1979
emission do not constitute at the First World Conference on climate
everybody's main area of concern change. At that world conference, it was noted
or interest. This is not surprising that there were increasing temperatures. It was
since addressing climate change also agreed there that we hold as many
3296 PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES November 5, 2008
saying there is great urgency to deal with the issue consequences of climate change. We remember
of climate change. the devastating effect the El Nino rains had in
Mr. Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir, like I this country. Our roads and bridges were
said, climate change is a challenge to humanity. Its destroyed, and all manner of destruction
signs are phenomenal and known. They have been happened. Then came La Nina, which is the
seen and I need not elaborate on them. The opposite of the El Nino. It comes because
weather patterns in the world are changing. We there is a lot of heat and evaporation, which
used to have the short and long rains. However, creates drought. Drought denies us food. In
they are no longer received in the months they used 2006, failed rains in countries like Ethiopia,
to. This is because of the green house gases Kenya and Somalia put 17 million people in
destabilising atmospheric set-up. The moment you famine. It brought in the singer called Geldof to
destabilise the atmospheric set-up, the weather come and sing in Ethiopia in order for food to
conditions change. What happens when weather be supplied to Ethiopia. We expect more of
conditions change? It affects supply of water, food those because of climate change. Another
and our health. That is the urgency of this matter. example is that in 2003, there were heat waves
Mr. Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir, it in India which killed 1,500 people. Europe,
again affects patterns of behaviour of plants and Italy and France had the same problem that
animals. In the process, they can cause what we time. There was drought in Australia and the
see today in human beings; albinism. This is a result effects are still being felt up to today. In the last
of disturbance of the genetic arrangement, so that 40 years, the temperatures in Siberia have risen
genetic arrangement gives us a white child who is by 3 degrees centigrade. Rising by 3 degrees
born from two black parents. centigrade is a huge margin that will destroy
Mr. Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir, this some acquatic life in lakes because it is
green house effect also causes changes even to supposed to stay in a cold environment. All that
blossoming of flowers. The moment this changes, happens because of climate change.
it affects the livelihood of the beasts and birds. The Mr. Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir,
next thing is, you will not have honey on your coming closer home, there is no snow-cap on
breakfast table. We must address these issues as Mt. Kilimanjaro. That is because there is heat
quickly as possible. being generated by the greenhouse gases. The
Mr. Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir, these same applies to Mt. Kenya. That disappearance
are the issues which we must address as quickly as of the snow-cap, which the scientists are calling
possible. The migratory birds and animals will the "bamafrost" will destroy some plants along
change their movement as a result of climate the way. It will deny livelihood to animals and
change. You will find the wildbeast not going to plants that were living on top of Mt. Kenya and
where they used to go. That also applies to Mt. Kilimanjaro. There are so many of such
flamingoes. They are supposed to go all the way to situations that are happening in the world
Lake Natron to breed but they may not go there today. There is the ice-melting in the Arctic and
due to climate change. The temperatures on the Antactic. The polar bear is in a big problem.
flight route will have changed and will force those Their numbers are reducing because of climate
birds not to fly to their breeding places. change. Disasters related to floods have
Consequently, that is going to give us many increased since 1960 in the whole world. In
problems. 1960, we only had eight cases and in 1970, we
Mr. Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir, I had 31 cases. In 1980, there were 41; in 1990,
want to give you a few examples of such we had 56 cases; in 2000, there were 154 cases
situations. In 2003, heavy rains in Ethiopia and in 2005, there were 170. The numbers are
displaced 70,000 families. In Kenya, there was El increasing for such catastrophies and I cannot
Nino and La Nina. We may not have [Mr. Bett] agree more with what the United Nations
thought seriously about them but those are the Secretary-General said; that, it is no longer an
3298 PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES November 5, 2008
ADJOURNMENT