Raila Odinga Blasts Parliament, Accuses it of Rubber-Stamping Executive Bills

Raila Odinga, veteran politician and Azimio One Kenya coalition leader, has launched a scathing attack on the Kenyan Parliament, accusing it of being a mere rubber-stamp for the Executive and failing to fulfill its constitutional duty of rigorous legislative scrutiny.

Addressing mourners at the burial of former Bumula MP Lawrence Sifuna on Monday, December 18, 2023, Odinga expressed his strong concerns over Parliament's alleged subservience to the Executive branch. "Bunge inatakikana inaangalia kazi ya serikali kuu lakini kama bunge inafanya kazi ya serikali kuu sasa nani ataoversight?" he posed, questioning who would oversee the government if Parliament itself was acting as its agent.

His criticism went further, directly targeting the quality of legislation being passed. "Kama serikali kuu imeleta sheria mbaya inatakikana bunge itetee haki ya wananchi, sheria kama hii sheria ya fedha ambayo imeletwa katika bunge inatakikana bunge ipinge lakini kama wabunge wanenda pale wanapitisha sheria mbaya ambayo inafinya wakenya nani atetea wananchi?" Odinga lamented, arguing that Parliament should protect citizens from bad laws proposed by the Executive, such as the controversial Finance Bill, instead of hastily ratifying them.

Odinga's remarks resonated with some present at the burial, echoing concerns held by a section of the Kenyan public about Parliament's role in upholding democratic principles and protecting citizens' rights. Several other leaders at the event echoed Odinga's sentiments, calling for a more independent and robust Parliament.

However, Odinga's accusations didn't go unchallenged. Supporters of the government defended the passage of the Finance Bill, arguing its necessity for economic stability. They further countered Odinga's claims of Executive control by pointing to instances where Parliament has rejected or amended government-backed bills.

The debate over Parliament's independence and effectiveness is likely to continue, fueled by Odinga's strong criticism and the upcoming 2025 general elections. Whether Parliament can restore public trust and assert its role as a vital check on the Executive remains to be seen, but Raila Odinga's words have certainly served as a wake-up call, prompting scrutiny and demanding action towards a more vibrant and independent legislature.