“State House Discussions Should Have Been Done In Parliament” – MP Otiende Amollo
Summary:
- MP Otiende Amollo disapproves of President Ruto’s meeting with CJ Koome, stressing the need for parliamentary involvement in crucial judicial decisions.
- Amollo contends that judiciary matters, including budget allocations and judge appointments, should follow proper legislative processes, not executive discussions.
Jan 23, (TopNews) – In a pointed critique of Monday’s State House meeting, Rarieda MP Otiende Amollo labels the gathering between President Ruto and Chief Justice Martha Koome as untimely and unnecessary.
The meeting, convened to address the ongoing discord between the judiciary and the executive, stemmed from Ruto’s public accusations of judicial interference with government projects.
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Despite the announced resolutions, including commitments to support the judiciary’s budgetary requirements and plans for additional judges, Amollo argues that such decisions fall squarely within the jurisdiction of parliament.
Speaking in an interview with KTN News, Amollo stresses that legislative processes, not executive meetings, should have been followed for matters like increasing the number of judges and budget allocations.
Amollo perceives the meeting as interference with the independence of the judiciary and expresses disappointment, hoping that Chief Justice Koome and Deputy Chief Justice Philomena Mwilu would have boycotted it.
He underscores the distinct roles of each arm of government, emphasizing the clarity of oversight responsibilities.
National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula, in response to questions about the meeting’s outcomes, affirmed the legislature’s commitment to supporting the judiciary.
“Parliament stands ready to work collaboratively to address the needs of the judiciary, ensuring the smooth delivery of justice,” said Wetangula.
Attorney General Justin Muturi echoed the sentiment, stating, “The executive recognizes the importance of a well-functioning judiciary. We are committed to facilitating the necessary resources and support for its effective operation.”
The meeting, attended by key figures including CoG chairperson Anne Waiguru, aimed to discuss anti-corruption strategies, accountability enhancement, and service delivery improvement for Kenyan citizens, according to State House spokesperson Hussein Mohamed.
The commitment of each government branch to present proposals within 30 days to a National Council of the Administration of Justice (NCAJ) forum chaired by CJ Koome was also highlighted.
The reaffirmation of upholding the rule of law and respecting court decisions was emphasized by Ruto, Wetangula, and Koome, as stated by State House.
Amollo’s critique underscores the ongoing debate about the separation of powers and the appropriate channels for addressing crucial matters affecting the judiciary, urging a more prominent role for parliamentary oversight in such affairs.