Former AG Muigai Wants Leader Of Opposition To Receive Security Briefing Too

Former Attorney General Githu Muigai believes that the job of opposition leader should be constitutionally recognized and have an official office.

 The former AG proposed to the National Dialogue Committee (NDC) at the Bomas of Kenya that the opposition is an equally formidable political force that should be constitutionally allowed to operate from Parliament and its leader be accorded state security and distinct privileges.

"I don't oppose it; in fact, it simplifies politics." In a democracy, the opposition is a government in waiting. Hence it has shadow cabinet ministers. "They should be shadowing other cabinet ministers in parliament," he said.

"In a democracy, the opposition leader has such high-level security clearance that he is briefed in the same way that the President is briefed." He is briefed on national security issues, internal and external dangers, visiting delegations, etc."

This comes amid debate among leaders, with some claiming that it is unconstitutional and others advocating for its implementation.

President William Ruto has stated that he is willing to create and support the post if it will allow them to control the government better.

In response to Ruto's remarks, National Assembly Deputy Speaker Gladys Shollei stated that the office is being established to make opposition leader Raila Odinga more productive and to legitimize his job.

The President of the Law Society of Kenya (LSK), Eric Theuri, has called the creation unconstitutional and violates the current constitutional framework.

Raila Odinga, the head of the Azimio la Umoja-One Kenya Coalition Party, and future elected politicians will be permitted to select supporters for constitutional and independent commissions if the measure is passed.