MCAs divided over Punguza Mizigo Bill

Thirdway Alliance leader Ekuru Aukot, who is spearheading the Punguza Mizigo initiative. [Standard]

The Punguza Mizigo (constitutional amendment) Bill, 2019  is set to be tabled in at least three county assemblies in the South Rift region today.

Interviews by leaders of Majority, Speakers and MCAs in Nakuru, Bomet and Taita Taveta revealed that members are sharply divided over some of the proposals contained in the bill.

MCAs are divided over proposal to abolish seats for nominated senators, MPs and assembly members.

The proposals to have a seven-year-one term presidency has excited some members, arguing the idea will enhance democracy.

Another issue MCAs seem to be in agreement is the proposal to make wards the primary unit of accelerated development, replacing the National Government-Constituency Development Fund (NG-CDF).

Leader of Majority in Nakuru Moses Ndung’u confirmed that the draft Bill will be tabled this week but said they were seeking consensus among members especially as Jubilee party elected ward reps to forge a common stand on the document.

“Voters are important in this exercise. Every member has to consult them through public participation forum,” he said.

Kabazi Ward MCA Dr Peter Mbae, one of the proponents of the bill in the county, raised the issue of interference from the political class.

“As members of the county assemblies, we feel threatened by pronouncements made by National Assembly Majority leader Aden Duale and the Senate Minority Leader James Orengo who have urged county assemblies to reject the bill,” said Mbae.

Bomet County Assembly Clerk Isaac Kitur confirmed that the document would be tabled on Tuesday (today).

But Singorwet MCA Alfred Langat poked holes into the drive by Dr Aukot, saying his intention was suspect.

However, Longisa MCA Davis Langat and his Chepchabas counterpart Vincent Kiprotich said there was nothing wrong with the bill.

Langat said the intention to increase allocation to counties from 15 per cent to 35 per cent was a good move.

In Taita Taveta, Deputy Speaker Chrispus Tondoo and Majority Leader Jason Tuja said MCAs will endorse the bill because it would increase revenue to counties.

“The House Business Committee will prioritise the bill for debate and approval,” said Mr Tuja.

But Senator Johnes Mwaruma opposed the bill and termed it unconstitutional as it has created the Ward Development Fund.