New rules make PAC boss Opposition leader

The Chairman of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) would assume the position of Leader of Official Opposition when no party can meet the requirements.

In the proposed Standing Orders in Sessional Paper number 3 of 2008, which revises parliamentary procedures, the PAC chairman will play this role now that the two main parties, ODM and PNU, have formed a coalition Government, leaving Parliament with no Official Opposition.

No other party had the requisite 30 members to form the Official Opposition.

And the proposed Standing Orders allow visiting heads of State and foreign dignitaries to address Parliament. The new orders also expand the House Business Committee, which will be controlled by the party with majority seats in Parliament with a reduced role for the Front Bench.

media coverage

The proposed Standing Orders have introduced guidelines on media coverage of parliamentary proceedings.

They also introduce a new regime on preparation and processing of the Budget estimates by enhancing Parliament’s participation and reducing the Finance minister’s discretion.

House departmental committees have been increased to include an implementation committee. Ministers will be penalised for non-compliance with committee recommendations.

Lands Minister James Orengo and Mr Eugene Wamalwa (Saboti, PNU) hailed the proposals as a milestone in Kenya’s democracy. He said they would enhance the Legislature’s oversight role and liberate it from the clutches of the Executive.

The proposals create 45 minutes for the Prime Minister to address Parliament and answer members’ questions on Wednesday.

They also provide fifteen minutes every Thursday for the Vice-President who is also the Leader of Government Business to inform Parliament on House business for the following week.