Starting September 18, Cabinet Secretaries (CSs) in Kenya will once again face Members of Parliament (MPs) in question time, a crucial session for ensuring governmental accountability. This marks the end of a temporary suspension that had been in place since the new Cabinet was formed. The suspension was instituted to allow the new CSs adequate time to familiarize themselves with their respective portfolios. National Speaker Moses Wetang’ula announced the resumption, emphasizing that the break was meant to ensure a smooth transition and effective governance.
The decision to resume these sessions follows significant public and parliamentary pressure, especially in the wake of recent tragic events in the education sector. Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba is scheduled to appear in the afternoon sitting on September 18. His appearance is highly anticipated as he is expected to address several pressing issues, including the progress on the New Higher Education Funding Model. This model was a key topic during the Member’s Kamukunji held on August 20, 2024, and its implementation remains a critical area of focus.
Furthermore, Ogamba will also tackle other significant concerns within the education sector. The tragic fire at Hillside Endarasha Academy in Nyeri, which resulted in the loss of 21 learners’ lives, has heightened the urgency for a detailed account of the ministry’s actions and future plans. The incident has underscored the need for improved safety measures and effective response strategies to prevent such tragedies in the future.
Speaker Wetang’ula highlighted the importance of these sessions in holding the executive accountable to the people. This approach aligns with President William Ruto’s push for increased transparency and responsibility from government officials. Ruto has emphasized that these sessions serve as a vital platform for executive accountability, providing Kenyans with a clearer understanding of the government’s operations and progress on key issues.
In response to occasional absenteeism by some CSs, National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah has issued a stern warning. He stressed that attending these sessions is not a favor to MPs but a fundamental aspect of their duties. Ichung’wah’s remarks underscore the necessity for CSs to respect their role in Parliament and engage constructively with the elected representatives of the people. The Majority Leader affirmed that the House would take necessary actions to ensure that its constitutional mandate is upheld, reinforcing the principle of executive accountability.
The resumption of parliamentary question time reflects a broader commitment to transparent governance and the effective oversight of public officials. These sessions are not just procedural but serve as a cornerstone for democratic engagement and accountability. By addressing critical issues such as the new funding model and school safety, the sessions aim to build public trust and ensure that government actions are aligned with the needs and expectations of Kenyans.
As the House reconvenes, the focus will be on ensuring that Cabinet Secretaries are held to account and that their responses are substantive and address the concerns of both MPs and the public. The resumption of question time marks a renewed commitment to accountability and transparency in Kenya’s governance, reinforcing the role of Parliament as a key player in overseeing the executive branch.
