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{
    "id": 50274,
    "url": "https://info.mzalendo.com/api/v0.1/hansard/entries/50274/?format=api",
    "text_counter": 392,
    "type": "speech",
    "speaker_name": "Mr. Njuguna",
    "speaker_title": "",
    "speaker": {
        "id": 20,
        "legal_name": "Peter Njuguna Gitau",
        "slug": "peter-gitau"
    },
    "content": "Mr. Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir, there was a time when the Kithitu Oath was applied in one part of this region. I recall a sentence being meted out and this is a part of our history. So, I request hon. Members to go and dig deeper into our past history. The new law will address some of these unpleasant upheavals that we have seen in this country. I note that the term of office for the in-coming commissioners will also be limited to a period of six years. Noting the kind of credible leadership that has been given by the Interim Independent Electoral Commission (IIEC), it is my view that if extension of that Commission will be considered, it will give this country a better chance to continue managing our electoral system. Mr. Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir, I also note that the President, in consultation with the Prime Minister, is mandated to consult one another on the appointment of the new commissioners. This will be healthy for the smooth running of our Government and the cohesion of this country. I note that business interests will not be allowed to be conducted by the commissioners, therefore, minimizing corrupt deals and erasing the impunity that would have been manifested in the new Commission. I also note that the Members will not be allowed to transact or trade business with the new Commission. Even relatives of the commissioners will not have an opportunity to conduct any business. I also note with appreciation that members of the public will be treated well by the new Commission. At times, members of the public have been harassed and humiliated when they visited these offices. Therefore, decency will be extended to the members of the public if this law is implemented. The Commission will be expected to conduct business in a very friendly atmosphere. We further note that the members of this Commission will not have any room to demand any request or Harambee contributions as it has been the practice in this country. This means that corruption will also be minimized. The Members of the Commission will also be required to maintain self-discipline. Even disclosure of information will not be tolerated by the new Commission. Mr. Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir, it is also important that we note that the leaders who will be appointed will be expected to provide credible leadership. National elected leaders and those aspiring for any leadership position in this country should be expected at all times not to issue statements that will be scaring, threatening and even trying to tear this nation into pieces. This is because by so doing, we are likely to jeopardize tourism, industrialization and national cohesion in our country. This law will bring sanity and room for competition; the competition that we have seen being exhibited by our versatile athletes. I wish to take this opportunity, again, to thank the athletes who particularly won huge victories in London and Boston marathons. These are patriotic Kenyans and the new Commission that will come should be given room and leeway for those very competent and qualified Kenyans to take charge. Mr. Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir, I very strongly support this Bill."
}