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{
    "id": 1292003,
    "url": "https://info.mzalendo.com/api/v0.1/hansard/entries/1292003/?format=api",
    "text_counter": 121,
    "type": "speech",
    "speaker_name": "Sen. (Dr.) Khalwale",
    "speaker_title": "",
    "speaker": {
        "id": 170,
        "legal_name": "Bonny Khalwale",
        "slug": "bonny-khalwale"
    },
    "content": "I beg your pardon, Mr. Speaker, Sir. I rise pursuant to Standing Order No. 52(1) to make a Statement on a matter of national importance and general topical concern, namely, the temporary suspension by the High Court in Eldoret of all the official sittings, meetings and deliberations by Members of Uasin Gishu County Assembly, pending the hearing and determination of a Petition challenging the composition of the County Assembly. The suspension arose from the filing of a Petition in the High Court by a civil society activist, challenging the composition of the County Assembly, specifically, that the Assembly lacks the adequate representation of women and marginalized groups, following the revocation by the courts of the nomination of nine United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party Members of the County Assembly (MCAs). Mr. Speaker, Sir, it is imperative that we take note of these developments and their potential impact on our democratic process. The suspension raises critical questions about the state of our democratic institutions and the need for adherence to the rule of law. It is incumbent upon us, as representatives of the people, to closely monitor and address this matter, to ensure that the rights of our constituents are protected. County assemblies are an integral part of our democratic governance system and play a crucial role in representing the interests of the people. They are fundamental institutions through which the voices and concerns of the residents of Uasin Gishu County are heard, debated and addressed. While appreciating that the Judiciary plays a vital role in ensuring the rule of law and must be allowed to fulfil its constitutional mandate and responsibilities, allow me to quote Section 7A(1) and (2) and Section 14(2) of the County Governments Act- “Section 7A. County Assemblies to be duly constituted at the first sitting- (1) A county assembly shall not be fully and duly constituted for the first sitting after a general election unless all the members provided for under paragraphs (b) and (c) of Article 177(1) of the Constitution have been duly nominated and their names published in the Gazette. (2) Sub-section (1) shall not apply where the nomination of a member of a county assembly under paragraphs (b) and (c) of Article 177(1) of the Constitution is the subject of a court order stopping or otherwise pending the nomination of the member. The electronic version of the Senate Hansard Report is for information purposesonly. A certified version of this Report can be obtained from the Director, Hansard Services,Senate."
}