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{
    "id": 196434,
    "url": "https://info.mzalendo.com/api/v0.1/hansard/entries/196434/?format=api",
    "text_counter": 23,
    "type": "speech",
    "speaker_name": "Mr. Deputy Speaker",
    "speaker_title": "",
    "speaker": null,
    "content": "Hon. Members, Mr. Namwamba is a lawyer. It is very important for hon. Members to acquaint themselves with the provisions of the Standing Orders, the Constitution and the Statutes that we have in this country. Coalitions are not made inside the House but outside. The Speaker has absolutely no role in the formation, reformation or disbanding of coalitions. The Speaker will rule on this matter, which is of great importance, but it will be on the sitting arrangement due to the unique situation that we have now and the membership or the chairmanship of the Watchdog Committees. It is your business, as Members of Parliament in the Backbench to form your own coalitions, grand or super-grand, and demonstrate your principles and ideals and what you want to do on the Floor of the House by bringing in the right Motions. It is your business. The Chair cannot rule on the formation of a Grand Opposition Coalition. There are no provisions in the Constitution, Standing Orders or in our own statutes. So, the Chair rules that the matter that you have right now, you might think it is of national importance, but this House has a problem getting enough business to transact. Create your caucuses, or coalitions, outside the House and demonstrate it by bringing in what you think is going to be your role in being the watchdog of the people of Kenya. I agree that we need a powerful watchdog, but the Chair does not have any responsibility in the formation of grand coalitions, whether they are in the Government or in the Opposition. Let the matter rest. I have ruled on it, and I will make a further ruling tomorrow on the sticky issue about which I gave a promise yesterday. Proceed!"
}