The Senate has formed a special committee to resolve the Third Basis for Revenue Allocation block, after adjourning the debate for a 10th time on Monday evening. Hours before that, Senator Kithure Kindiki’s motion to adjourn the special sitting on the basis that three other Senators-Senator Cleophas Malala, Senator Christopher Langat, Senator Steve Lelegwe-had been arrested and had to be present. The votes were tied at 29-29 on those opposing and supporting the motion, however, and it was lost.
Senator Orengo fronted another motion to adjourn the debate, saying another special sitting can be arranged for Tuesday next week, with time quickly running out for the business of the day. The motion was seconded by West Pokot Senator Samuel Poghisio.
The members of the special committee are Senators Johnson Sakaja, Mutual Kilonzo Jr, Kipchumba Murkomen, Susan Kihika, Samson Cherargey, Moses Kajwang, Ledama Ole Kina, Moses Wetangula, Anwar Loitiptip, Nderitu Kinyua and Stewart Madzayo.
The arrest of Malala, Langat, and Lelegwe drew a stern reaction from leaders, with Senators led by Ole Kina protesting the executive’s interference. ANC party leader Musalia Mudavadi faulted the arrests, saying the government is misusing law and order agencies by politicizing the police. In a statement, Mudavadi said Kenya is going back to the dark days, “Arrest of Senators ostensibly to prevent them from attending to their duty in Parliament to vote for or against motions on County revenue sharing is very unfortunate. It’s a throwback to dark days we thought are behind us.”
