President William Ruto on Sunday urged Members of Parliament (MPs) to traverse the country to better discharge their duties.
Speaking at a church service in Kimilili, Bungoma County, Ruto emphasized the importance of understanding the nation to effectively exercise legislative and oversight roles.
“MPs have three roles: representation, legislation, and oversight of the government,” President Ruto stated. “While representation requires your presence in your constituencies, legislation and oversight are national duties performed in the National Assembly. It is not a village assembly; it’s the National Assembly.”
Ruto urged MPs to explore different parts of Kenya to gain a comprehensive understanding of the country.
“You have to get out of your constituency and go to the next place, understand Kenya so that as you legislate in Parliament, you understand your country,” he added.
In contrast, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua had earlier advised MPs to avoid what he termed “political tourism” and remain in their constituencies.
Speaking at a different forum, Gachagua insisted, “Everyone should remain in their constituencies. Stay in your constituencies! If you have been elected in another place, why are you coming to disrupt other elected MPs? What we don’t want is political tourism.”
Gachagua emphasized that MPs should focus on their mandates to their constituents and not be seen frequently in different regions.
The Deputy President’s remarks prompted a response from Oscar Sudi, a close ally of President Ruto. Sudi defended his movement across the country, stating that he was using his own resources.
“I am at liberty to move around as much as I need to,” Sudi said. “I am garnering support for the President and following my party leader’s example in my political tours.”
The differing views between Ruto and Gachagua highlight an ongoing debate about the roles and responsibilities of MPs in Kenya.
While Ruto encourages national engagement, Gachagua advocates for a more localized focus.
This debate underscores the challenges in balancing national legislative duties with constituency responsibilities.
As the discussion continues, MPs are left to navigate their dual roles in representation and national governance, with the aim of ensuring effective service to both their constituents and the country at large.
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