ODM bid to 'discipline' MPs flops

Kenya: The attempt by Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) to replace de-whipped MPs from committees in the National Assembly has flopped.

The motion by Majority Leader Aden Duale, presented by Coalition for Reforms and Democracy (CORD) Minority Whip Thomas Mwadegu, was yesterday defeated after Jubilee legislators termed the move ‘parliamentary dictatorship’ and political intolerance.

Once again, the 'tyranny of numbers' reigned supreme, with 90 MPs voting against the motion while on only 19 supported it.

The de-whipped MPs are Ken Obura (Kisumu Central), Samuel Arama (Nakuru Town West), Dalmas Otieno (Rongo) and Zainab Chidzuga (Kwale County MP).

Speaker after speaker lashed out at the ODM party leadership for being intolerant to opposing views.

Cecily Mbarire (Runyenjes) faulted ODM for political intolerance and party dictatorship.

Jubilee 'moles'

“If we allow this to go on, no project of Government will take place in Opposition zones. Those seen with the Government will be branded moles and perceived not loyal to the party. It might even happen on my side,” said Ms Mbarire.

“Alfred Keter (Nandi Hills) has been on the war path with Jubilee. He has attempted to stop Government projects, but we didn't chase him from the coalition. Instead, we talked to him to know his concerns," she added.

Florence Kajuju (Meru) said: "It is unfair to remove a member from a committee because he/she is not advancing the party's agenda.”

But Minority Deputy Leader Jakoyo Midiwo told Jubilee off, saying it could not dictate to the Opposition how to run its business.

Mr Midiwo said party issues could not be resolved by their opponents

“It is untenable that an elected member can choose to subscribe to another party’s policies and ideologies. The House is only mandated by the Constitution to consider the names,” said Midiwo.

Richard Onyoka (Kitutu Chache South) vowed to stay put.