Kenya’s Parliament is under fire following revelations that it adjourned a record 66 times due to quorum hitches, raising questions about the commitment of lawmakers to addressing critical national issues. A recent report by Mzalendo Trust, a parliamentary watchdog, paints a grim picture of absenteeism and inadequate engagement in both the National Assembly and the Senate, further eroding public confidence in the legislative arm of government.
Since August 2023, the National Assembly adjourned 40 times out of 158 sittings, translating to 25% of its sessions. Similarly, the Senate adjourned 26 times out of 177 sittings, constituting 15% of its sessions. Alarmingly, these adjournments often occurred during discussions on pressing matters, including the high cost of electricity and flooding caused by heavy rains.
Legislative Apathy Amid National Crises
The high frequency of adjournments highlights a troubling trend of non-committal lawmakers. According to the report, some sittings failed to take place entirely, including one following the impeachment vote of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. This lack of quorum has raised concerns about the priorities of legislators who are among the highest-paid public servants in Kenya.
The report points out that Parliament’s failure to convene on critical issues undermines its role in safeguarding the electorate’s interests. Despite an increase in legislative output, Mzalendo Trust criticized MPs for pushing bills and motions that disregard public input, further isolating Kenyans from the decision-making process.
For example, the Digital Health Bill, which had significant public interest, was given only three days for public participation in the Senate. Similarly, the Social Health Insurance Bill was allocated a mere seven days in the National Assembly. Such rushed timelines reflect a disconnect between legislative actions and the democratic ideals of public inclusion.
Public Participation Under Threat
Mzalendo Trust also highlighted significant gaps in public participation, a constitutional requirement for lawmaking. The report revealed inconsistencies in the periods provided for citizen input, ranging from three to 20 days in the National Assembly and three to 24 days in the Senate. Bills that attracted substantial public interest tended to receive the shortest timelines, curtailing meaningful engagement and accountability.
“The report notes that public participation remains a challenge due to the lack of a clear framework on what constitutes meaningful participation,” it stated. Without robust mechanisms to facilitate input from citizens, the electorate’s needs risk being sidelined.
Disregard for Public Sentiment
Parliament’s voting patterns and legislative priorities have come under scrutiny for failing to align with citizens’ expectations. There are growing concerns over attempts to weaken constitutional provisions through amendments and the passage of bills that do not reflect the electorate’s aspirations. This disconnect is especially stark in a year marked by economic hardships and rising calls for government accountability.
Despite the increasing legislative activity, the report notes that MPs have frequently overlooked Kenyans’ pressing needs, including high living costs, inadequate healthcare systems, and environmental challenges. Mzalendo warned that this persistent neglect could further alienate citizens and diminish trust in Parliament.
Call to Action
The revelations by Mzalendo Trust underscore an urgent need for reform in Kenya’s legislative processes. Strengthening public participation frameworks, enforcing stricter attendance requirements, and aligning parliamentary priorities with national needs are critical steps to restoring faith in the country’s democratic institutions.
As Kenyans grapple with various socioeconomic challenges, the onus is on Parliament to demonstrate accountability and commitment. Lawmakers must rise above partisan and personal interests to ensure that their actions genuinely reflect the aspirations of the people they represent.
The electorate, too, must play a proactive role by holding their representatives accountable. With informed citizenry and engaged leadership, Kenya can overcome the challenges posed by legislative apathy and foster a more inclusive and responsive democratic process.
