Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has called for the urgent passage of the Assumption of the Office of President and Transition of Executive Authority Bill, 2025, which aims to stabilize presidential transitions and safeguard the economy and safety of citizens. He stresses the need for early planning and expresses the significance of learning from previous election experiences to ensure effective governance.
Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has urged Parliament to expedite the passage of the Assumption of the Office of President and Transition of Executive Authority Bill, 2025. This Bill aims to create formal mechanisms that facilitate presidential transitions following general elections, ensuring stability during such critical periods.
The proposed legislation includes provisions to implement checks to mitigate any disruptions resulting from the transfer of executive power. Mudavadi emphasized that these measures are essential to safeguard the economy, safety, and well-being of the Kenyan populace.
Reflecting on lessons drawn from the contentious August 2022 elections, Mudavadi noted the importance of guaranteeing the electoral body’s constitutional role during transitions.
He stated, “When you look at that Bill, there are lessons that have been picked from the experience the late former IEBC chairman Wafula Chebukati went through in 2022. In honouring a man who wanted to bring law and order… Parliament should enrich the Bill and ensure its implementation is fully adhered to,” further adding that the need for order and effective regulations is paramount for smooth transitions in Kenya.
Mudavadi called for early planning by state departments and agencies preceding elections, emphasizing the necessity of preparing financial statements and inventories to benefit both outgoing and incoming administrations.
The Prime Cabinet Secretary reiterated that successful transitions begin with detailed pre-election planning and extend until inauguration day. He voiced these sentiments during the funeral service of the late Wafula Chebukati, attended by President William Ruto and other dignitaries.
He remarked, “Some jobs are no ordinary tasks; they are a calling and are a leap of faith since many lives depend on them.” Mudavadi acknowledged the critical role of Chebukati as the chairperson of the IEBC, emphasizing the hard decisions made during his tenure, advocating for respect and appreciation of those efforts.
Moreover, with the ongoing process of reconstituting a new IEBC, Mudavadi highlighted the importance of strong leadership in government institutions, asserting that their strength is determined by the individuals at the helm.
In summary, Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi’s advocacy for the swift passage of the Transition Executive Authority Bill serves as a crucial step toward ensuring stable presidential transitions in Kenya. The Bill aims to uphold democratic principles while minimizing disruptions amid leadership changes, drawing valuable lessons from past electoral experiences. As the nation approaches future elections, pre-election planning will be vital for successful transitions between administrations.
Original Source: www.the-star.co.ke
