Omtatah Critiques Ruto-Odinga MoU as Unconstitutional ‘Civilian Coup’

Senator Okiya Omtatah has criticized the MoU between President Ruto and Raila Odinga, labeling it as a “civilian coup” against the Kenyan Constitution. He argues it violates constitutional principles and undermines Parliament’s authority. Omtatah also calls for reform in the electoral system to ensure more efficient declaration of results, urging that governance must operate within legal frameworks to serve the people’s interests.

Senator Okiya Omtatah has publicly criticized the recent memorandum of understanding (MoU) between President William Ruto and ODM leader Raila Odinga, labeling it unconstitutional and describing it as a “civilian coup” against the Kenyan Constitution. Appearing on NTV and Nation FM, Omtatah emphasized that this MoU aims to create a broad-based government, which he argues breaches Article 3, Clause 2 of the Constitution, designed to uphold the legal framework of governance.

Omtatah questioned the constitutional basis for a broad-based government, reflecting his concerns about the implications of such arrangements. He stated, “Tell me where in the Constitution you can get a broad-based government. It’s unconstitutional.” He accuses Ruto and Odinga of orchestrating an illegal power-sharing deal that bypasses Parliament, thereby undermining its authority and the governmental structure.

The senator reinforced that Parliament remains responsible for overseeing presidential powers, emphasizing that power donated to the government must be exercised through this legislative body. He remarked, “Why should there be an MoU when you have got Parliament? Donated power is exercised through Parliament.” Omtatah also called for public and parliamentary advocacy to ensure strict adherence to the Constitution, aiming to keep governance within legal parameters.

In addition to his concerns regarding the MoU, Omtatah criticized the electoral process in Kenya, particularly the handling of election results. He advocated for immediate announcement of results right after voting instead of delayed central tallying at locations like the Bomas of Kenya. He stated, “Bomas should not be used as a tallying centre…you only formalise it. That’s why the IEBC chairman is supposed to just declare the results.”

In conclusion, Senator Okiya Omtatah’s strong objections to the MoU between President Ruto and Raila Odinga highlight significant constitutional concerns. He urges adherence to the Kenyan Constitution while calling for immediate electoral reforms to enhance efficiency in result declarations. Omtatah’s stance underscores the importance of maintaining constitutional governance and the role of Parliament in holding executive powers accountable.

Original Source: eastleighvoice.co.ke