A Dark Day for Democracy: Condemning the Machakos Assembly Chaos

 A Dark Day for Democracy: Condemning the Machakos Assembly Chaos

Today, the hallowed chambers of the Machakos County Assembly were desecrated by scenes of unacceptable chaos, violence, and the vile use of foul language. This deplorable behaviour is, without question, the preserve of individuals lacking in knowledge, skills, and wisdom. The August House, a cornerstone of our democracy, deserves utmost respect and dignity. Our leaders are expected to differ on matters of principles and ideas, not resort to the kind of blows and fists that degrade elected officials to the level of wild animals.

It's a distressing reality that many Members of County Assembly (MCAs), despite holding a pivotal position in our leadership hierarchy, have regrettably reduced themselves to being mere goons and youth wingers. This undermines the very essence of their mandate.

The drafters of the 2010 Constitution envisaged a horizontal structure of leadership, promoting collaboration and mutual respect among all levels of government. The ideal was a system where no single entity would be seen as inherently "above" another. However, what we often observe today is a worrying shift towards a vertical structure, with MCAs frequently perceived and treated as being at the very bottom.

This unfortunate perception is often attributed to factors such as lower salaries or the absence of a dedicated development kitty for MCAs. While these issues are valid points for discussion and advocacy, it is crucial to remember that if MCAs remain dedicated to their core roles of legislation, representation, and oversight, they would undoubtedly emerge as highly respectable and dependable leaders. Their influence and impact would stem directly from their constitutional mandate, earning them the dignity and respect they deserve, irrespective of remuneration or development funds.

The promotion of quality oversight and robust representation at the grassroots level should unequivocally be the sacred preserve of MCAs. They are the closest link between the citizenry and governance, tasked with articulating the needs of their constituents and holding the executive accountable at the county level. When this fundamental role is abandoned for fisticuffs and disorder, it is the ordinary citizen who ultimately suffers.

I join all well-meaning Kenyans in strongly condemning the unfortunate turmoil witnessed today at the Machakos County Assembly. We demand a swift and decisive restoration of order, and a recommitment from all elected members to uphold the dignity of their office and serve the people of Machakos with integrity and sobriety. The people deserve better than this shameful display.

 

Ndungata