Join me as we explore the dismal performance of Kenya's 13th Parliament, highlighting legislative incompetence, political corruption, and the erosion of parliamentary accountability, leading to a decline in Kenyan democracy.In the annals of Kenyan history, the 13th Parliament stands out not for its achievements, but for its staggering incompetence and disregard for the welfare of citizens. Despite being entrusted with the sacred duty of representing the people, this assembly has become synonymous with greed, selfishness, and a blatant disregard for the principles of democracy.
Legislative Negligence
At the heart of the 13th Parliament's failure lies its inability to fulfill its primary function: crafting laws that serve the interests of all Kenyans. Time and again, we have witnessed lawmakers passing legislation without fully comprehending its implications or, worse yet, without bothering to read it at all. The recent debacle surrounding the Finance Act, which introduced a perplexing avocado tax, epitomises this legislative negligence. As MP Mary Wamaua candidly admitted, the sheer size of the Finance Bill rendered it inscrutable even to those tasked with scrutinising it—a damning indictment of the assembly's commitment to diligence and accountability. The same Finance Act 2023 has brought into sharp focus the the curious phenomenon of the duality and deceptiveness of Kenya's political class and the perils of clueless representation.
Erosion of Parliamentary Oversight
Furthermore, the 13th Parliament has failed miserably in its duty to hold the executive branch accountable. Instead of serving as a robust check on presidential power, Parliament has been reduced to a mere rubber stamp, enabling unchecked executive overreach and rampant corruption. The executive's stranglehold on Parliament has rendered it impotent, incapable of fulfilling its constitutional mandate to safeguard the interests of the people. As Deputy Minority Leader Robert Mbui has lamented, the executive's interference has rendered Parliament dysfunctional, robbing Kenyans of the democratic representation they deserve.
A Betrayal of Trust
Perhaps most egregious is the betrayal of trust perpetrated by the 13th Parliament against the very citizens who elected them. While promising to champion the interests of the people, lawmakers have instead prioritised their own enrichment, cozying up to the corridors of power in pursuit of personal gain. The revolving door between opposition and government coalitions, driven by opportunism rather than principle, further underscores the assembly's moral bankruptcy and disregard for democratic values.
The Path Forward
As Kenyans grapple with the consequences of parliamentary ineptitude, it is imperative that we reclaim the spirit of democracy and hold our elected representatives accountable. By demanding transparency, fighting against corruption, and actively participating in the democratic process, citizens can send a powerful message to their lawmakers: the era of impunity and self-interest is over.
In the grand tapestry of Kenya's political history, the 13th Parliament will be remembered not for its triumphs, but for its abject failure to uphold the principles of democracy and serve the interests of the people. As we confront the myriad challenges facing our nation, let us not forget the lessons of the past. Only through unwavering vigilance and a steadfast commitment to democratic values can we pave the way for a brighter future for all. Kenyans must demand better from their elected representatives and reclaim the promise of democracy for generations to come.
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