Parliament Statement on MPs Plan to Watch World Cup in Qatar

Former senator Millicent Omanga during 2018 World Cup in Russia
Former senator Millicent Omanga during 2018 World Cup in Russia
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Parliament on Wednesday, November 16, clarified reports that Members of Parliament were set to travel to Qatar for World Cup.

The National Assembly clerk Samuel Njoroge refuted allegations that parliamentarians will use taxpayers’ money to have fun in Doha during the global showpiece.

"We are not aware of any request to send members to Qatar and in any case, we are implementing austerity measures, some of which may not allow us to spend money on a venture like this," Njoroge clarified.

Members of the 13th Parliament during President William Ruto's inaugural speech on September 29, 2022..jpg
Members of the 13th Parliament during President William Ruto's inaugural speech on September 29, 2022.
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The National Assembly

According to earlier reports that circulated on media platforms, National Assembly speaker Moses Wetangula was to lead a group of 15 parliamentarians to Qatar for World Cup.

The reports drew sharp criticism from Kenyans who are grappling with harsh economic times, that have seen prices of basic commodities soar.

The trip would also contradict President William Ruto’s directive on cutting foreign travel by state and public officers.

“Budget cuts will apply on various items such as local and foreign training, office and general supplies, hospitality supplies and services, local and foreign travel,” a memo from the Treasury communicating Ruto’s directive read in part.

It is not the first-time members of parliament are being accused for misusing public resources on World Cup.

In 2018, 20 legislators went to watch World Cup in Russia while billing the taxpayer.

The MPs only watched four games but spent 2 weeks in Russia costing the Kenyan taxpayer millions.

In 2016, parliamentarians were castigated for travelling to Rio, Brazil for Olympics while leaving athletes back home facing a cash crisis.

The team experienced travel and accreditation challenges among other hiccups while parliamentarians were booked in posh hotels in Rio.

Football fans at the Kasarani Stadium during an international match.
Football fans at the Kasarani Stadium during an international match.
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Eddy Mwanza