Senators clash over seven CSs accompanying Ruto to UNGA
Ruling and opposition senators have clashed over the seven Cabinet Secretaries accompanying President William Ruto to the UN General Assembly in New York.
Senators from both the ruling coalition and opposition debated on Wednesday regarding the decision of seven Cabinet Secretaries to join President William Ruto at the United Nations General Assembly in New York. The opposition senators argued that the absence of the Cabinet Secretaries hindered the Senate's ability to effectively engage the Executive on issues concerning Kenyans, and raised concerns about the financial implications of the large government delegation traveling to the United States.
The Kenya Kwanza side defended the trip, emphasizing the opportunity for ministers to conduct government business.
Senators criticized the delegation size, with Boni Khalwale, from Kakamega, arguing that Kenya is not a failed state and questioning the rationale behind such a large delegation. He stated that the trip not only impacts government efficiency but also has financial implications due to various expenses incurred by the delegation.
Edwin Sifuna, a Nairobi Senator, expressed disappointment over the absence of Cabinet Secretaries, particularly in addressing concerns raised by the people during their recent visit to the Kilifi Central fish landing site. He highlighted the need for the executives to engage directly with the concerns of the residents, such as employment opportunities and the public-private partnership model proposed for the facility.
Sifuna also pointed out the contrast between Nairobi's infrastructure and the pedestrian environment in New York City, where Cabinet Secretaries appeared to be walking confidently around the city.
Tana River Senator Danson Mugatana defended the presence of Cabinet Secretaries in the President's delegation, stating that international trips offer opportunities for ministers to hold separate meetings with their counterparts and negotiate agreements. He argued that such engagements allow the government to accomplish multiple tasks during one trip, instead of making separate journeys.
However, he emphasized that Cabinet Secretaries accompanying the President abroad are also responsible for addressing concerns raised by the public when required.
Written by urgent.news from Capital FM Kenya's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
