Parliament does what Ruto wants: Kihara accuses Executive of controlling MPs

Naivasha MP Jayne Kihara has criticized Kenya’s 13th Parliament for failing Kenyans and allegedly allowing the Executive to control its proceedings. During a local radio interview on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, Kihara asserted that the current Parliament has become too aligned with President William Ruto's agenda, hampering its capacity to independently oversee government actions.

"Parliament has failed Kenyans. I must admit," Kihara stated. She questioned the lack of urgency shown by parliamentary committees, especially those responsible for security matters, in investigating incidents that affect the country. Kihara argued that Parliament should be actively probing such issues rather than merely allowing the Executive to dictate its actions.

She cited the deployment of Kenyan police to Haiti as an instance of excessive Executive influence over parliamentary decisions. Kihara recalled that initial resistance from some lawmakers stemmed from concerns about Kenya's security requirements and the availability of local police officers. She further alleged that parliamentary group meetings at State House often involve financial inducements, based on her personal observations.

Kihara recounted the Finance Bill, 2024 controversy, stating that lawmakers were taken to State House after the bill faced scrutiny, where President Ruto made some concessions but she remained skeptical. She suggested that instead of seeking legislative endorsement, the President should communicate directly with Kenyans through a media interview to justify the legislation.