This archive report was first published on 2 August 2019.
On August 2, 2019, a sharp division emerged among Meru MCAs on whether to back or oppose the Punguza Mizigo Bill, moments after it was handed to the office of the Speaker.
Meru Speaker Joseph Kaberi had only told MCAs that the bill had been handed to his office before rifts emerged pitting proponents and opponents of the referendum bill.
A section of nominated MCAs led by Ruth Limungi and Salome Mutua announced they will support the bill because it proposes scrapping of nominated slots.
“I believe the bill is good. Abolishing the nominated slots will be good because it will reduce the wage bill and release the money for development projects. Though some people (nominated members) will lose employment, the citizens will benefit,” said Ms Limungi.
However, their nominated colleagues Emily Makena, Grace Gakii, and Gacheri Muthuri said they will oppose the bill because it seeks to scrap the slots, compromising gender equality and justice for ‘marginalised’.
Meru MCAs are sharply divided over the Punguza Mizigo Bill.
Meru Governor Kiraitu Murungi addresses the County Assembly on July 31, 2019.
