The Central Committee of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party yesterday sanctioned the recall of six members of parliament for backing Finance Bill 2024, which President William Ruto withdrew following protests that escalated to deaths and skirmishes across the country.
Kenyans, especially Gen Z, who are also unhappy with President William Ruto’s leadership, have staged demonstrations for three weeks now, despite the withdrawal of the bill. Legislators facing the headache of potentially losing their legislative seats include Elisha Odhiambo (Gem), Gideon Ochanda (Bondo), Emmanuel Wangwe (Navakholo), Memusi Kanchori (Kajiado Central), Bernard Shinali (Ikolomani), and Caroli Omondi (Suba South).
ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna revealed plans to recall lawmakers whom he termed ‘repeat offenders’ who have violated the sacred oath to the wishes of the electorate. “The criteria were straightforward; these are repeat offenders. Those who voted against the wishes of the people in 2023 and 2024 because they are few who met their Damascus moment,” he said.
Since Kenyans took to social media to voice their opposition to the Finance Bill 2024, using the hashtag #Reject Finance Bill, calls have been loud for recall action against lawmakers who supported it.
This has raised questions about the feasibility of recalling an MP. The process of recalling an MP, which is governed by the Constitution and the Elections Act, has always been a hurdle, following legal avenues.
