Nairobi Speaker threatens to declare seats of absentee MCAs vacant
The Speaker noted that the issue of quorum has become a recurring problem, affecting the smooth running of the assembly’s business.
Nairobi City County Assembly Speaker Ken Ngondi has warned that he will take action against Members of the County Assembly (MCAs) who consistently fail to attend plenary sessions.
Frustrated by persistent quorum issues, Ngondi has vowed to enforce constitutional provisions that allow him to declare the positions of absentee members vacant.
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Speaking on Thursday, Ngondi expressed disappointment over the continued absence of MCAs, saying he has reached his limit and will not hesitate to act.
"Members, as we prepare to go for the short recess, I would like to make this communication, and this should serve as a wake-up call. This might necessitate action towards the unbecoming behaviour of some of our members," he said while addressing those present.
He warned that critical legislative business is at risk if the absenteeism trend continues. Ngondi pledged to read the attendance records once the assembly resumes after the short recess.
The Speaker noted that the issue of quorum has become a recurring problem, affecting the smooth running of the assembly’s business.
"The unbecoming behaviour and attitude of members towards their responsibility is clear, and the law and other constitutional requirements outline the consequences," he stated.
According to Standing Order 252(1) of the Nairobi City County Assembly, a member who misses eight sittings without written permission from the speaker will be reported to the assembly, and the matter will be referred to the Committee of Privileges for a hearing and determination.
If found guilty, the Speaker is required to issue a notice of vacancy, meaning the affected MCA would have to seek re-election.
Ngondi hinted that around 10 to 12 MCAs who have rarely attended assembly sittings over the past year could be the first to face disciplinary action.
Meanwhile, the assembly leadership, through respective political parties, is expected to make changes to sectoral committees.
The Speaker directed party whips to reconstitute all house committees in line with standing orders, as the two-and-a-half-year tenure for members serving in committees has ended.
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