Nasa's headache in implementing People's assembly despite county assemblies passing it

Members of NASA presents the People's Assembly motion to Kakamega County Assembly. [File, Standard]

The National Super Alliance (NASA) is facing huge challenges in implementing the People’s Assembly Bill.

Even though the bill has been unanimously passed in Kisumu, Migori, Homa Bay, Siaya, Vihiga, Busia, Kakamega and Bungoma, questions are being asked on how it will be implemented.

A spot check by The Standard revealed a majority of citizens did not fully understand it, with some leaders fearing the legislation would rob them of some powers.

Jubilee Party supporters in the region have also vowed to frustrate the bill by rallying their supporters in the region against it.

Interviews with a number of locals, activists and area leaders established that residents were still not informed about the legislation and how it will help the Opposition in its quest for reforms.

This even as it emerged NASA would convene a meeting with the counties that have passed it to chart a way forward on how to implement the legislation.

Wednesday, however, The Standard established locals were still scratching their heads about the bill, with some not understanding if the People’s Assembly would take over the county assemblies.

They said they did not fully understand it but were optimistic the Opposition will organise awareness campaigns to help them understand its structure.

Janet Auma, a fish vendor at the Kisumu bus park, said that as much as they welcomed the idea, they did not fully understand how it worked.

“We are hoping that the assembly will also take the initiative to sensitise the public about the people’s assemblies and what is expected from us residents,” said Auma.

Another trader, Job Ouma, said a lot still needed to be done to ensure the move would be a success.

“In the past the assembly passed a number of bills, most of which we have not even been enlightened about. It will not be a surprise if this one flops if they don't do awareness campaigns,” said Mr Ouma.

Huge success

Kisumu Resident’s Voice chairperson Audi Ogada said lack of information was likely to affect the implementation of the legislation but insisted that it was bound to be a huge success.

He noted that a number of leaders including local MCAs had expressed concern that People’s Assembly was likely to take away their power. There have also been questions about public participation as required by the Constitution.

But Siaya Speaker George Okode said the People’s Assembly was bound to be a huge success.

“It is true not everyone understands it but that will not stop it from being a success," said Mr Okode.

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