Parliament resumed business Tuesday on the same day the court of Appeal ruled that their mandate ends on January 14, next year, even though many MPs had been claiming they should remain in office and earn salaries and allowances until March 4.
The House has a packed calendar with a raft of Bills slated for debate and approval.
With elections seven months away, many MPs are no doubt consumed with planning for their campaigns, but they must stick to the matter at hand and complete their primary duty, which is legislation.
The implementation of the new Constitution and indeed the entire conduct of the next government is at stake. There is concern that anti-reformists in Government keen on retaining control over the next administration are keen to sabotage the new laws through Parliament.
MPs must be fully alert to the dangers posed by having to legislate so close to a momentous election.
True, they have in the past proven to be poor readers of Bills unless their self-interest is catered to. As a result some laws have been passed that should have remained off the Statute books.
Key players in this crucial period include the Leader of Government Business in the House, the Head of the Civil Service, and the Attorney General. The three must ensure that Bills critical to the implementation of the Constitution are given priority, especially those that relate to county government to be set up next year.
MPs must keep their eyes on the ball and avoid sideshows
