The Speaker of the National Assembly (NA) Moses Wetang’ula has urged Parliament’s leadership to unite and address critical matters of national importance regardless of party affiliation.
Wetang’ula who was addressing a leadership retreat for the National Assembly of the 13th Parliament in Mombasa said that the legislators must rise above their differences and collaborate in finding solutions that bring positive change to the country.
He noted that Parliament is entrusted with the sacred duty to address the formidable issues that impact the people’s daily lives; the high cost of living, inequality, youth unemployment, and the specter of climate change which he said are not just abstract concerns but touch the hearts and lives of every Kenyan.
He urged MPs to play their roles as representatives of the people bound by a common mission that is to serve the best interests of the nation regardless of party affiliations.
Wetang’ula said by working in unison, they can marshal resources, ideas and energy to create real and lasting change.
“It is by joining hands across party lines that we can craft comprehensive solutions to the complex problems facing our nation. This retreat, therefore, is an opportunity to engage with one another, to listen to differing viewpoints and to collectively craft strategies that will shape the future legislative agenda,” he said.
He underscored the need for a well-organized and focused legislative agenda in the National Assembly adding that it is crucial for the majority and minority leaders to work together to effectively marshal the legislative agenda, in a bipartisan approach.
The Speaker said that since its inauguration the NA has passed eleven Bills, adopted 95 motions, considered 42 statutory instruments, responded to one statement, and concluded six petitions, among other key notable achievements.
“I would like to commend members for working diligently when exercising their legislative authority and dispensing with matters of national importance,” he said.
National Assembly Leader of Majority Kimani Ichungwa encouraged the committee leadership to prioritize the interests of the nation when addressing presented matters.
He said members should engage in constructive discussions and share experiences that will not only better serve and improve the lives, hopes and aspirations of the citizens but also make them better leaders.
Ichungwa said there is a need for the legislators to challenge themselves, embrace innovative solutions and commit to a shared vision as house leadership for a better nation.
“I hope we will be re-energized with a stronger commitment to our legislative duties as we individually and collectively serve our people,” he said.
The Clerk of the National Assembly Samuel Njoroge said that the retreat is of great strategic importance and is intended to set the overarching agenda of the House-both the legislative and procedural.
“This leadership retreat, a gathering that holds immense significance as we delve into this year’s theme of “building synergy in leadership: enhancing the legislative agenda in the National Assembly,” he said.
Issues to be discussed include; the place of house political party caucuses in a presidential system of government, strategies for promoting bipartisan engagement and compromise in the legislature and transformative leadership.
By Chari Suche
