Kenya Kwanza, Azimio urged to resume bipartisan talks to avert constitutional crisis

Azimio's bipartisan talks team, led by co-chair Otiende Amollo (centre), during a media briefing at Bomas of Kenya on May 23, 2023. [Jenipher Wachie,Standard]

In the spirit of bipartisanship, the Speaker encouraged the committee members to prioritize the interests of the nation, above any other considerations, when addressing the presented matters.

He acknowledged the dedication of the co-chairs and their respective teams in fulfilling the task entrusted to them.

Majority leader Kimani Ichungwa backed the call by Wetang'ula for the resumption of the talks and called on his minority counterpart Opiyo Wandayi to collaborate with them and share any draft motion they may have so that the committee can consider and develop a synchronized draft motion for approval in the House.

Ichungwa further highlighted the plight of constituents, such as those in Banisa Constituency, who are suffering without representation and stressed the urgency to expedite the talks to prevent a constitutional crisis due to the absence of an electoral commission.

Wandayi lamented at the prolonged duration of the talks noting that Kenyans had grown fatigued of the same. He however stressed the need to act swiftly and act in good faith to conclude the talks.

Wetang'ula consequently put the two leaders to task asking them to see the bipartisan talks through and not let the matter make it to the floor of the House again.

"It beats logic that co-chairs who sit next to each other in meetings chose to instead engage in prolonged letter exchanges. They should fulfill their responsibility and discharge their duties effectively," noted the speaker.