13th Parliament accused of failing Kenyans and weakening oversight of the Executive
Communications expert Bernard Onchwari has accused Kenya's 13th Parliament of betraying citizens by failing in its oversight and representation duties. Onchwari stated that while some individual lawmakers have performed well, Parliament as an institution has often sided with the Executive, failing to act as a check on presidential power. He highlighted Parliament's approval of government budgets and borrowing without adequately questioning the rising national debt or the value derived from borrowed funds. Onchwari noted that despite President William Ruto's promise to reduce borrowing, public debt has increased by over KSh 4 trillion in less than five years, leading to higher taxes and difficult economic conditions for Kenyans. He criticized Parliament for not demanding answers regarding persistent concerns raised by the Auditor-General before approving further borrowing and taxation. Onchwari cited the June 25, 2024 Finance Bill vote as a clear example of Parliament's disconnect from the public, as lawmakers voted for the legislation despite widespread protests. He emphasized that Parliament should not be a "rubber stamp" for the Executive. Looking ahead to the 2027 General Election, Onchwari urged voters to scrutinize parliamentary candidates as closely as presidential candidates, warning that a legislature that abdicates its oversight responsibility poses a significant threat to democracy.
