9 November 2009
editorial
Parliament resumes today after a two-month break. This marks the last session of the year and the 'in' tray is definitely full.
Judging the performance of Parliament is sometimes difficult. On certain occasions, the members surprise with the speed and alacrity with which they dispense with motions. But sometimes, they amaze with their procrastination.
For now, there is urgency. The first issue at hand is debate on a motion by Imenti Central MP Gitobu Imanyara that seeks to set up a local tribunal to try election chaos suspects.
It is a sequel to previous government's motions of the same nature, but which were roundly rejected by MPs, who argued for an international framework.
But there has a been a rethink. In particular, it comes quickly after last week's visit by ICC Prosecutor Luis Moreno-Ocampo, whose parting message was that Kenya needed a local system to deal with the bulk of the suspects.
Unfinished matters include determining the Leader of Government Business in the House, and appropriation Bills that allow the Finance minister to draw cash from the Consolidated Account to run government affairs.
Issues that surfaced during recess include the controversial purchase of new vehicles for ministers.
MPs need to give serious attention to these matters. Unfortunately, debates are sometimes driven by partisan interests, ethnic extraction or political expediency. Such considerations cloud sound judgement and deny Kenyans good laws.
Even then, it's notable that the 10th Parliament has stood out when occasion so demanded. Bold and assertive, the MPs have stood against Executive's excesses with admirable results. That must continue.
Let the MPs resume the business with a single resolve to expeditiously dispense with the burning issues of the day and equally, vigorously keep the Executive on its toes.
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