By Peter Opiyo
National Assembly Speaker Kenneth Marende has summoned an urgent meeting of the potent Powers and Privileges Committee to discuss the allegations of assault leveled against Makadara MP, Gideon Mbuvi.
Marende, who is the Chairman of the Committee, called for a meeting Wednesday afternoon regarding last week’s altercation involving the MP and Attorney General Githu Muigai.
Mbuvi popularly known as Sonko is said to have assaulted the AG in the precincts of Parliament accusing him of protecting a land grabber. The altercation resulted to a minor injury of one Sergeant-at-arms.
“I have summoned the members of the Committee of Privileges of Parliament to an urgent meeting of the Committee to discuss and inquire into this matter,” said Marende.
The parliamentary officer, who sustained injuries, recorded a statement at Parliament Police station and obtained a medical examination report (P3) from Kenya Police Surgeon.
Marende said the officers at Parliament’s Police Station are actively involved in investigating the matter. He appealed to any MP or parliamentary staff, who may have witnessed the incident to record statements with the police within three days.
“I have directed all parliamentary officers who may have witnessed the alleged assault to record statements at the Parliament Police Station forthwith,” the Speaker said in a statement.
He also asked the Director of Public Prosecutions to expedite investigations on the matter.
Marende said the National Assembly (Powers and Privileges Act) that protect MPs should not be abused.
“My Office takes seriously any breach or abuse of parliamentary powers or privileges,” said Marende.
Other members of the Committee are Mutula Kilonzo, Githu Muigai, Millie Odhiambo, Martha Karua, James Gesami, Nuh Nassir, Chris Okemo, Eugene Wamalwa, Peter Munya and Fred Kapondi.
