I am impartial in House, says Muturi

By SAMMY JAKAA

Speaker of the National Assembly Justin Muturi has broken his silence and dismissed allegations that he is a rogue.

He cautioned MPs against using abusive language saying they were setting a bad example to the youth.

Speaking in Teso North constituency, Muturi said those calling him names were those who lose out on debates.

Blame game

“It is normal for those who lose out to opt for blame game to justify their failure. My work is like that of a judge where in every verdict I make, the winners will rejoice as the losers cry foul,” said Muturi.

The Speaker said all his actions were within the law and that he will never be moved by critics.

Recently, former Prime Minister Raila Odinga and Meru Governor Peter Munya attacked Muturi for allowing the House to discuss a motion that they claimed would undermine the independence of the Judiciary.

The two leaders termed Muturi as an arrogant Speaker who may lead the country into a constitutional crisis.

But the Speaker said he is just a referee and cannot influence any decision in the House since he has no vote.

No influence

“I am just a referee in Parliament and I have no influence in decisions made by legislators. There are in fact decisions that even the President has no power over. When a motion is passed by over two thirds majority in Parliament, it supercedes veto power of the President,” added Muturi.

He was supported by MPs Arthur Odera (Teso North), Emmanuel Wangwe (Navakholo) and Benjamin Washiali (Mumias East).

The MPs said the Speaker does not debate the bills and should not be blamed for decisions made in Parliament.