Committee Nominations in Jitters

Parliament resumed its sitting over a backdrop of political tension on the yet to be formed Constitutional Select Committee, set to oversee the implementation of the new Constitution. Though Members of Parliament are unanimous on the need for unity in the committee, there is fear that those in the 'NO camp may be excluded.

The challenge of implementing the new Constitution became imminent on Tuesday, when MPs in ODM who had campaigned against the new Constitution found themselves on the receiving end. Government Chief Whip Jakoyo Midiwo seemed determined that these opposers be excluded from nomination to the new parliamentary committee, which will oversee the implementation of the new Constitution. Mr Midiwo's hard line position did not augur well with the targeted opposers, ahead of an ODM parliamentary group meeting.

A section of the PNU wing supports Midiwo's stand, but were willing to compromise for a lean team, borrowed heavily from the current Parliamentary Select Committee. PNU will also convene a parliamentary group meeting, in order to develop its own list of nominees to the oversight committee.

Despite the political jitters surrounding the political party nominees, MPs are unanimous in their call for a united front, and the need to shed 'YES' versus 'NO' rivalry in Parliament's new mandate.

This mandate will commence on the 27th of this month, when the President will promulgate the new Constitution.