Duale: Raila’s People’s Assembly Illegal, Waste of Time

Aden Duale, the leader of majority in the National Assembly has rubbished Opposition National Super Alliance’s (NASA) decision to form a People’s Assembly, terming it illegal and a waste of time.

The Garissa Township MP said that the constitution does not provide for the formation of such groups, adding that it is a strategy to blindfold supporters into remaining behind them.

“What the Opposition is calling for is not anchored in the Constitution, Raila is just playing politics,” Duale said.

Duale said that only the two Houses of Parliament, the National Assembly and the Senate have the mandate to represent people as per the constitution.

On Tuesday, Raila announced Nasa would form the People’s Assembly comprising of elected leaders, youth, church and civil society to discuss issues affecting Kenyans and push for the restoration of democracy.

“The People’s Assembly is the vehicle through which we will exercise the solemn duty of restoring democracy, constitutionalism and the rule of law. The People’s Assembly will be a broad based forum consisting of elected leaders and the leadership of other sectors of society in particular workers, civil society, religious leaders, women, youth and economic interest groups,” Raila said.

“We will be announcing the date and programme of the Assembly’s inaugural convention in the coming days. The People’s Assembly will continue to exist until a legitimate presidency is restored,” he added.

However, Duale said it is the work of elected representatives to make or amend laws through Parliament.

“What the Opposition is calling for can only be addressed through Parliament. We are up to the task, if one wants the Constitution to be amended, Parliament is ready to do so,” Duale said.

He further said Jubilee is ready to dialogue with Raila, but it should not be on sharing power or a fresh election in 90 days as Raila demands.

“We have stated severally that we are open to dialogue with Raila but he should not expect President Uhuru to discuss anything to do with power sharing,” said Duale.