Ward reps shoot down Aukot’s Punguza Mizigo Bill

Thirdway Alliance chairman Ekuro Aukot in Lavington where they criticised politicians for opposing the Punguza Mizigo bill. [Collins Kweyu]

Thirdway Alliance's constitutional amendment initiative was yesterday rejected by Members of the County Assembly (MCAs).

The ward reps unanimously shot down Ekuru Aukot’s Punguza Mizigo Amendment Bill, arguing that it does not reflect the wishes of the people they represent.

The Bill was tabled by the chairman of the Legal Affairs and Human Rights Committee Gardy Jakaa of Bukhayo North/Walatsi ward.

Majority of the MCAs took issue with the proposal that individuals implicated in corruption be tried within 30 days, noting that this was unrealistic.

The debate and voting for the Bill was witnessed by County Assembly Forum Chief Executive Officer Judy Oduma.

Chakol South MCA Masikini Okodoi said Aukot was on an "impossible mission".

According to Mr Okodoi, several problems have been pointed out in the Bill, but, so far, no solutions have been offered.

“What we have as a country are normal challenges whose solutions can be found easily, not through Punguza Mizigo Bill,” said Okodoi.

Nominated MCA Azida Ali criticised Aukot for failing to engage other experts and politicians to come up with an all-inclusive document.

“The Bill is targeting elected leaders, particularly their salaries. Kenyans have not complained that they are tired of paying leaders who represent them,” said Azida.

Nominated MCAs Angela Nafula said the locals, who made their contributions during public participation that was conducted across the seven sub-counties, also opposed the Bill.