Tension within ODM meant to derail BBI implementation, says Orengo – KBC

The simmering tension within the Orange Democratic Movement party is meant to derail review and implementation of the Building Bridges Initiative report. 

This is according to Siaya Senator James Orengo who also claims the initial BBI report was altered by some individuals for selfish interests. 

Debate on the BBI Constitutional Amendment Bill 2020 report at the Senate and National Assembly during special sittings on Wednesday and Thursday left legislators divided over a few clauses in the proposed law termed as controversial.

Siaya Senator James Orengo who has been at logger heads with a section of ODM party leader Raila Odinga’s allies maintains the current turbulence within the orange party is deliberate and shall in the end create what he terms as ‘divisive’ document that will be shoved down the throats of innocent Kenyans.

Orengo who is also the Senate Minority Leader took issue with a section the BBI sponsored Constitutional amendment Bill 2020 which proposes subdivision of Nyatike constituency saying it is missing in the current document being circulated.

Orengo’s sentiments come against the backdrop of a divided parliament.

With divergent opinions on the BBI flaring, the National Council Churches in Kenya Meru and Kisumu chapters now want the debate stopped until after the 2022 general elections. 

NCCK leaders want the harsh economic state occasioned by Covid-19 pandemic that has taken toll on many Kenyans given priority.

The clergy also called on the National government to focus on Covid-19 rather than focusing on the BBI until every Kenyan understands the contents in the document adding that there is no hurry for amending the constitution.