Nyaribari Masaba Member of Parliament Daniel Manduku has issued a call for the dissolution of the country’s legislature and a reconstitution of the cabinet.
The dramatic proposal comes in the wake of widespread protests that saw demonstrators breach parliament buildings as they protested the Finance Bill 2024.
In a letter dated June 27, 2024, Dr. Manduku, outlined a series of measures he believes are necessary to “restore democratic integrity and public confidence.”
The MP’s proposals include not only the dissolution of parliament but also fresh elections within 90 days, to be overseen by the international community.
“Recent events have underscored an urgent crisis in Kenya’s political environment,” Dr. Manduku wrote, citing the “invasion and desecration of Parliament by Gen Z protestors” as evidence of a breakdown in public order and trust. The protests were reportedly sparked by the controversial Finance Bill, 2024, which has become a flashpoint for public discontent.
Dr. Manduku argues that President William Ruto has the constitutional authority to dissolve parliament under Article 261(7) of the Kenyan Constitution. While this article primarily addresses legislative delays, the MP contends that “its underlying principle supports the dissolution of a Parliament that has lost public confidence and failed in its core responsibilities.”
The letter also calls for a reconstitution of the cabinet, citing Article 132(2) of the Constitution. “Given the prevailing public discontent, reconstituting the Cabinet is essential to restore governance effectiveness and public confidence,” Dr. Manduku stated.
Perhaps most strikingly, the MP has called for international oversight of fresh elections, suggesting involvement from the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD). This proposal stems from concerns about the current state of Kenya’s electoral commission. “This has been necessitated by the fact that we do not have a fully constituted IEBC,” Dr. Manduku explained, referring to the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission.
The MP’s letter comes at a time of heightened tension in Kenya, with protests having turned violent in some areas. Dr. Manduku began his letter by expressing condolences to families who lost children in the demonstrations, while also praising “millions of our young citizens for standing up for their rights.”
