By Grace Gilo
The Joint Parliamentary Group of the Kenya Kwanza Coalition and the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) convened in Karen to hold a joint Parliamentary Group meeting.
The meeting, led by Kenya Kwanza’s Principal, President Ruto and ODM’s Principal, Raila Odinga, had the lawmakers reaffirming their shared commitment to the unity of national purpose, peace and stability of the Republic of Kenya.
According to the statement signed by Senate Majority Leader, Aaron Cheruiyot, the National Assembly Majority Leader, Kimani Ichung’wah, Senate Minority Leader, Stewart Madzayo and his NA counterpart, Junet Mohammed, they resolved to put aside partisan divisions and work together to advance the national interest above partisan political expediency.
“We commit to fostering reconciliation, dialogue and inclusion among all Kenyans to strengthen national cohesion,” read the statement in part from both Kwanza and ODM.
The leaders affirmed to prioritize legislation, oversight and resource allocation that facilitates delivery of key pillars, such as economic growth, social justice, job creation, healthcare, education, infrastructure development, agriculture, good governance and empowerment of youth and women.
They also committed to work together in their joint resolve to fight corruption in order to protect the integrity of Kenya’s institutions and their leadership.
Further, the MPs agreed to prioritize mechanisms necessary to ensure appropriate compensation to all valid cases of violence as shall be recommended by the Coordinating committee appointed by the President.
The leaders pledged to collaborate on matters of concern to the nation, guided by the principles of transparency, accountability and service to the people.
“Inspired by the patriotic spirit and nationalism of His Excellency President William Ruto and Right Hon. Raila Odinga, the Kenya Kwanza and ODM parliamentary teams, putting Kenya first, will give all necessary support needed to keep the country united on a progressive path, through consultations,” read the statement.
“The Joint Parliamentary Group, working through the National Assembly and the Senate, will prioritize policy, legislative and administrative proposals that will be made by the Committee Overseeing Implementation of the NADCO Report and the 10-Point Agenda,” they stated.
According to the lawmakers, a retreat for the joint Parliamentary Group shall be organized later in the year, as part of the conscious steps to build harmony and streamline working operations to achieve all the objectives as underscored in the Memorandum of Understanding.
“This is the first among the other Joint Parliamentary Group meetings that will take place in times to come,” Kenya Kwanza and ODM added.