This archive report was first published on 8 October 2019.
Published on October 8, 2019, the Punguza Mizigo Bill, a constitutional amendment initiative led by Ekuru Aukot, has been dealt a significant blow as its sponsors abandon the project mid-way.
According to sources close to the Thirdway Alliance leader, the decision to withdraw support was made after it became apparent that many counties would reject the initiative, rendering it a waste of time and resources.
Dr. Aukot, however, continues to put on a brave face, despite the evident collapse of his bill. In a scathing attack, he blamed 'known political players' for threatening MCAs to reject his bill, while also launching a verbal assault on the Ugatuzi Initiative being fronted by the Council of Governors.
Dr. Aukot accused the Council of Governors of copying and pasting some of the Punguza Mizigo Bill proposals, further fueling the controversy surrounding the initiative.
The Deputy President's statement warning those championing for constitutional amendments to prepare for the same fate as the Punguza Mizigo Bill was seen as a clear indication that he had abandoned his support for the initiative.
Thirdway Alliance leader Ekuru Aukot criticized the Deputy President's statement, saying it showed contempt for the ordinary mwananchi who had been lied to in the last six years.
Nairobi lawyer and political analyst JM Waiganjo attributed the near collapse of the bill to lack of funds, personnel, publicity, and resources. He also alleged that mainstream political parties vouching for the Building Bridges Initiative had used huge resources to ensure the Aukot-led process did not succeed.
Mr. Waiganjo further alleged that some MCAs were given money to reject the proposals, and that the Punguza Mizigo Bill lacked incentives or high backers, resulting in its rejection without scrutiny.
