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{
    "id": 997262,
    "url": "https://info.mzalendo.com/api/v0.1/hansard/entries/997262/?format=api",
    "text_counter": 212,
    "type": "speech",
    "speaker_name": "Hon. Speaker",
    "speaker_title": "",
    "speaker": null,
    "content": "Very well, Hon. Members. It is just good to affirm one point – that the Constitution we have has allowed Kenyans wide choices. That is why there are specific Articles 85 and 99. Article 85 recognizes the right for a person to run as an Independent candidate. And if you go to Article 99 on the qualification to be a Member of Parliament, it recognizes that right of independence. However, Article 91 talks about political parties. Therefore, once you are a member of a political party, surely you must abide by the rules of that party. I have just noticed that many of you could not remember that we sat here the whole day when adopting these new Standing Orders. We introduced Sub-section (1) in Standing Order 176 to provide for - because we really must make a choice - you either be independent or join a political party. Nevertheless, we said that yes, political parties are world over. They are not unique to Kenya. It is not unique to Kenya about party discipline. Why do you think the Whip exists? The Whip exists to enforce party discipline within Parliament to ensure Members know: \"This is the position of the party on this matter\", and then also take note that this Member every time I tell them this is the party position, he ducks to the toilet, walks away and says he is having mandazi or tea and does not come. Therefore, the Whip takes note. The electronic version of the Official Hansard Report is for information purposesonly. A certified version of this Report can be obtained from the Hansard Editor."
}