MPs Assured Of Safety In Parliament After 'Traumatic Events Of June 25'

Kenyan Members of Parliament have been assured of their safety as they prepare to resume House sittings on Monday, July 22.

In a communiqué dated July 19, National Assembly Clerk Samuel Njoroge addressed the "traumatic events of June 25, 2024," when parliament was invaded during the anti-Finance Bill protests, emphasizing the need to safeguard MPs against any future unprecedented events.

Njoroge assured that measures have been implemented to restore normalcy in Parliament and create a conducive environment for MPs to perform their duties. "Your security and safety at the workplace remain a key priority in these plans. As public servants, let us rely on our usual resilience, impartiality, professionalism, and solidarity to rebuild and continue serving the Nation and our institution with excellence," he stated.

He also commended the efforts of individuals who ensured the swift evacuation of leaders during the protests. "Allow me, in a special way, to single out our officers from the Directorate of Sergeant-at-Arms, the Directorate of Security and Safety Services, and the Department of Hospitality Services," he said. "As we move forward from that unfortunate episode, I urge us to retain and enhance our spirit of fellowship and caring for each other."

During the height of the nationwide protests, Parliament agreed to a two-week recess starting June 28, following the completion of budget-related activities. National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah moved the motion, highlighting that the recess would allow legislators to gather feedback from their constituents through public participation on the NGCDF proposals after the fund was increased by Ksh.30 million.

Facing mounting pressure, President William Ruto ultimately withdrew the Finance Bill on June 26, rendering it obsolete.