The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) President, Faith Odhiambo, has strongly criticised the 13th Parliament, describing it as compromised and lacking independence, unable to carry out its duties without external influence.
Speaking on Spice FM on Friday morning, Odhiambo condemned the August House, stating that it is highly compromised and easily influenced by directives from key government officials.
According to Faith, recent developments have shown Members of Parliament taking instructions from third parties and executing them obediently.
"When they agreed on some of the concessions on the bill, it was done as a party and then announced in parliament. That is highly irresponsible showing there is no independence in parliament. We have MPs who take orders and execute," she said.
"This is the most irresponsible parliament that is not representing the people of Kenya. MPs only appear to vote once or twice a year on various government bills," she added.
In the aftermath of recent anti-Finance protests and ensuing activities, retaliations have been reported across various parts of the country, with constituents storming the offices of Members of Parliament to express opposition to the Finance Bill.
These developments follow the High Court's decision to uphold the government's deployment of Kenya Defence Force officers to support the police in preventing looting and safeguarding public and government resources during protests.
The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) has voiced its disagreement with the court's ruling allowing the KDF deployment, pledging to take further action upon reviewing the detailed decision.
The LSK reiterated its commitment to defending the constitution and upholding the rule of law, expressing concern over what it termed unconstitutional measures being pursued by the government.
Earlier, Defence CS Aden Duale, through a gazette notice on Tuesday, announced the deployment of KDF to aid the police following disruptions to critical infrastructure near parliament during protests.
In a special sitting, National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula endorsed the deployment, backed by a motion put forth by Majority Leader Kimani Ichung'wah.
Parliament has faced scrutiny for pivotal decisions made on the floor, notably the passage of the controversial Finance Bill despite widespread protests demanding its rejection. The bill proposed a 16% VAT excise duty on essential items like bread, edible oil, sanitary pads, and diapers.
The vote saw 195 lawmakers in favour, 106 against, and three spoilt ballots.
