Sunday, July 11, 2010

Atwoli calls for dissolution of Parliament after referendum

Central Organisation of Trade Unions Secretary General Francis Atwoli has asked President Kibaki to dissolve Parliament after the referendum.

Atwoli said this would enable Kenyans to elect leaders who are willing to serve them diligently.

Speaking on Saturday at Busia Youth Polytechnic during Cotu Agenda 4 ‘Yes’ campaign rally, he said the current MPs had failed voters.

The trade unionists said the August House had failed the leadership test.

He termed as ‘robbery’ the recent attempt by MPs to increase their salaries, saying such move showed the lawmakers were oblivious of the economic status of most Kenyans.

"We ask the President to be firm and succumb to blackmail by these MPs," said Atwoli.

He asked the MPs who are not contented with their salaries to resign and give way to others who are willing to serve the country.

Atwoli warned of backlash if the Bill allowing the increase in MPs salaries is assented to by the President, saying the trade unions with over 1.5 workers could result to a strike.

MPs last week adopted a report that increased their salaries and allowances claiming it was the only way they could agree to pay taxes.

MPs pay taxes only on their basic salaries but not on their allowances, causing an outcry from Kenyans who are heavily taxed.

Atwoli took issue with rebel ministers in the Kibaki Government saying their actions affect service delivery.

"A minister who opposes the Government publicly and goes against collective responsibility is not fit to be in the Cabinet," said Atwoli.

Deputy Secretary General George Muchai said the Proposed Constitution would give the country a chance to change leadership.

Muchai said the new laws would also deal a blow to politicians who use their tribes to ascend to power.

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