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"speaker_name": "Sen. Wakili Sigei",
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"content": "Thank you very much, Madam Temporary Speaker, for giving me the opportunity to support this Motion. I thank the Majority Whip for moving the Motion and highlighting the critical aspects that underscore the need for our support. The IEBC is a constitutional body that plays a role in the setting up this House. Without its existence, none of the Members seated here today would have been elected to serve. It is responsible for overseeing elections across all positions from the Presidency to Members of County Assemblies (MCAs). As we deliberate on this Motion, it is essential that we recognize and appreciate the importance of the IEBC. We equally acknowledge the reasons behind the current absence of a commission and emphasize the need to fast track the ongoing process to establish one, which will undertake future elections. The Mover of this Motion has taken us through a number of constituencies, counties and county assemblies that currently lack representation. It is important to remember that representation in the National Assembly, the Senate or county assembly is a constitutional right for the people in these areas, constituencies or wards. Therefore, the request by the Selection Panel for an additional 14-day period under these circumstances is reasonable. That forms the basis of my support for this Motion. We are aware that interviews have been conducted and concluded for the position of the chairperson of the IEBC. We have followed this process with great anticipation, observing the candidates who have undergone the interviews. I believe one of the reasons this Panel is requesting additional time to ensure they have sufficient opportunity to thoroughly evaluate the candidates who will be interviewed in order to select the best from those who have applied. It is important to note that the published list of applicants for these various positions, including the chairperson and commissioners, has not yet been fully reviewed. It would be unfair to rush through the interview process for all the candidates. Furthermore, it would be even more unfair if more time was allocated to interview candidates for the position of chairperson while insufficient time is given to those being interviewed for membership in the commission. Therefore, it is only fair to ensure that adequate time is provided for all candidates to undergo a thorough interview process. Asking for 14 days under the circumstances is not reasonable. I beseech Members of this House to support this Motion. There are many constituencies, wards and counties without representatives, including Baringo County, where our late colleague, Sen. Cheptumo, once served. The people of these areas are eagerly awaiting the election of their representatives. However, this can only be achieved with an IEBC in place. While we are advocating for these elections to be conducted without delay, it is clear that they cannot proceed until the IEBC is established. Madam Temporary Speaker, there is also the issue of the boundaries review, which is particularly relevant as we are mid-term in the tenure of this current term. Adequate preparation is needed, along with the development of various legislations, which fall under the mandate of this House. However, much of this legislative work would originate from reports and recommendations provided by the IEBC, underscoring its importance. 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 and AudioServices, Senate."
}