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{
    "id": 1241069,
    "url": "https://info.mzalendo.com/api/v0.1/hansard/entries/1241069/?format=api",
    "text_counter": 143,
    "type": "speech",
    "speaker_name": "Sen. Thangw’a",
    "speaker_title": "",
    "speaker": null,
    "content": "Mr. Speaker, Sir, I rise to support the Statement on the issue of the disco- matanga. One of the objects of devolution is for counties to manage their own affairs. That includes cultures, the way of doing things, religion and anything that concerns a society. I would urge the Committee that will deal with this issue to look into that matter with that consideration in their minds. We need to ask ourselves, why were they banned? In 2018, the same ban on disco- matangas was effected in Kilifi County. In 2019, there was another ban of that kind in Homa Bay and now this one in Kwale, I think in 2022. When the Interior Department was banning these disco matangas, they cited unexpected pregnancies among the school-going children. In these events, there are discos, drinking and dancing. It happens all the way to the morning. They gave reasons that it was affecting the 100 per cent transition of students from primary school to secondary because of unwanted pregnancies. As Sen. Chimera said, instead of banning 100 per cent, it should be regulated. If that is how they feel is the best way to celebrate when sending the departed ones, I do not think that it should be 100 per cent banned. Instead, they should be controlled in terms of time and those to attend. Where I come from, we might not have this. However, I feel it is my mandate and the mandate of this Senate to defend other people’s rights. I remember someone telling me that they even have competitions on who had the biggest disco matanga in a certain area when they are paying their last respects to their departed ones. So, I believe that instead of banning them let the security be enhanced. Let the authorities or the Government come up with measures to reduce these engagements that make the children get unwanted pregnancies. Even the parents can take care of their children. You do not have to let them attend such events. I support that Statement and believe the Committee will make the right recommendations. I thank you, Mr. Speaker, Sir."
}