Clash of colours and style lends House a c*rnival air
Far from the usual serenity and order at the precincts of Parliament, yesterday it was full of bustle and excitement as newly elected MPs tagged along members of their families and supporters to witness their swearing-in.
Most came in top-of-the-range vehicles with only a handful being dropped by taxis.
It was a mishmash of outfits – traditional, formal and even casual – as the lawmakers arrived at Parliament buildings in style.
But it was the Mumias East MP Peter Salasia who stole the show with his unkempt hair, an oversized pair of trousers and no socks.
Party colours
The youthful lawmaker looked excited as he strolled into the Chamber and was only too willing to grant interviews to journalists.
Others were dressed in party colours. Kirinyaga Senator James Murango and Murang’a Woman Rep Betty Maina walked in screaming yellow, from head to toe, leaving little doubt about party affiliation.
To ensure the right people have a glimpse of their big day, some legislators ensured the “home” media were there to cover them.
There were several rural-based TV and radio stations taking interviews and capturing the images of the MPs.
Unlike previous occasions, most of the MPs did not find it difficult reading the oath as prescribed, with only Kapseret MP Oscar Sudi stumbling on the words.
Security was tight in and out of Parliament with the busy Parliament Road closed to motorists.
At the gates, one had to identify the person they were accompanying and those who could not give the MP’s full name were denied entry.
Yesterday also marked the end of the tenure of Justin Muturi as the Speaker of the National Assembly after serving for ten years.
Muturi held his last press conference at his office where he outlined his achievements during his tenure.
“Today is my last day. I will, however, be visiting because my successor is a person I know well. My hope is that Moses Wetang’ula is successful,” he said.
He continued: “He is a person I am familiar with. We were in the same class and roommates at university. Wetang’ula and I were appointed to serve in the Judiciary the same day. He was posted to Nakuru and I was posted in Bungoma. I know his father and family. I hope he will win.”
