Solve issue amicably, clerics advice MPs

By Moses Nyamori

Eldoret, Kenya: Religious leaders from the North Rift have urged MPs to amicably solve their differences in Parliament instead of interrupting House business.

They expressed concern over the standoff in Parliament, which is likely to hamper service delivery.

Bishop Cornelius Korir of Eldoret Catholic Diocese said the legislators could discuss Parliament’s Standing Orders in view of changing them to accommodate both parties to allow Parliament continue with its business as scheduled.

“Let them discuss and if possible they can review the Standing Orders to allow them proceed with House business,” said Bishop Korir adding: “The MPs should use the opportunity to serve Kenyans instead of walking out of the committees. Withdrawing from the House teams is not the answer, instead they should look for an amicable solution while in the committees,” said Bishop Korir.

Issue in house

CORD demands majority of composition and chairmanship of the Parliamentary Accounts Committee and Parliamentary Investment Committee.

ACK Eldoret Diocese Bishop Christopher Ruto also said tradition should override the new Standing Orders, saying the Jubilee Government cannot monitor itself.

Bishop Ruto said: “The previous Standing Orders should be adopted since the Government cannot be its own prefect.”

He reiterated that CORD should be given the oversight responsibility to keep the Government in check.

Ruto urged legislators to put the interest of the people of Kenya first.

He added that Kenyans are experiencing various challenges, which ought to be given priority by leaders.

“The leaders should think of serving their constituents instead of engaging in fighting, which is of no benefit to the common mwananchi. Kenyans are facing numerous challenges ranging from insecurity and raging floods that need to be sorted,” said Ruto.

Threats by CORD MPs to boycott Parliament business risks paralysing House business as well as Government operations.

For instance, the Appointments Committee tasked with vetting Cabinet nominees cannot kick off.

Raila and former Vice-President Kalonzo Musyoka had met CORD MPs and resolved the coalition withdraws from all parliamentary committees until their demands are met.