The Senate on Tuesday deferred the communication effecting the leadership changes of the Minority side that saw Isiolo Senator Fatuma Dullo dropped as the Minority Whip and replaced with her Narok counterpart Ledama Ole Kina.
House Deputy Speaker Kathuri Murungi explained that an injunction from the Political Parties Disputes Tribunal (PPDT) caused the deferment, pending the hearing and determination of the matter.
“Respect of the rule of law and judicial authority are fundamental tenants of our democratic system of governance and accordingly I defer the communication pending the outcome of the proceedings before the tribunal,” he ruled.
The Azimio La Umoja One Kenya coalition replaced Dullo following accusations that she had become a rebel.
Dullo was among the close to 30 Jubilee Party members who pledged to work with President William Ruto in open defiance of the Azimio coalition dictates.
The Speaker’s communication subsequently ignited fury among members of the Minority aside who read mischief into it.
House Minority Leader Stewart Madzayo submitted that the House should follow its own precedents citing the infamous removal of former Senators Kipchumba Murkomen, Susan Kihika, and Irungu Kangata from their leadership positions.
“Speaker we are a house of records and there are precedents,” he said.
Nyamira Senator Okong’o Mogeni while protesting the ruling pleaded with the Speaker to rise above political interest and defend the integrity of the House.
“Let us be serious for the sake of the country and the House,” he said.
Siaya Senator Oburu Odinga said the matter was “more political than legal” citing the inference from the ruling party to influence opposition leaders to shift their allegiance.
