Kenya’s parliamentarians need to rise to the level of independent thinking and leadership. A recent review of important national issues, from the finance bill to the controversial Adani deal, has revealed a worrying trend among parliamentarians: a reluctance to delve deeply, think independently or clarify positions until the president speaks. This abdication of responsibility is not only a betrayal of their constitutional duties, but also a failure to serve the people they represent.
Parliament is not a ceremonial stamp for the executive. It is the heart of Kenya’s democracy, empowered to scrutinize, debate and decide on matters of national interest. When parliamentarians sit on the fence waiting for the president’s signal, they are failing to fulfill this vital role. They undermine democracy, deny meaningful representation to the electorate and place the full burden of governance on the president. Beyond the Finance Bill and the Adani Agreement, other pressing issues require active engagement from parliamentarians.
For example, the new university funding model will affect the future of millions of Kenyan students, but parliament has not engaged in a thorough debate on its impact on access and equity in higher education. The ongoing kidnappings and enforced disappearances that highlight serious human rights abuses demand urgent action and accountability, but parliament has remained surprisingly silent. The corruption scandals that continue to siphon billions of dollars off Kenya each year have attracted more investigations from parliamentarians than actual action. Parliament’s role in oversight is vital, but it has been reduced to a platform for partisan theatrics rather than a credible institution for holding public officials accountable.
It is time for our parliamentarians to remember that their loyalty lies first and foremost with the Kenyan people. Independent thinking and honest debate are not rebellious acts. They are the essence of leadership. A parliament that actually solves problems strengthens the presidency, supports national development and builds sustainable democracy. Kenya needs a parliament of thinkers and leaders, not followers who wait for instructions. The stakes are too high to be complacent. Parliamentarians need to rise to the occasion, face tough challenges head-on and help the country move toward purpose and progress. Kenyans deserve representatives who are bold, informed and courageous enough to tackle the country’s challenges with integrity and vision.
