The Senate Standing Committee on Devolution and Intergovernmental Relations has ordered the immediate resumption of business at the Machakos County Assembly, following months of disruption caused by leadership wrangles, physical confrontations, and alleged procedural violations.
The committee, chaired by Senator Mohamed Abass Sheikh, met with the Assembly's leadership and Speaker in a tense but constructive session aimed at restoring order and accountability. Vice Chair Senator Catherine Mumma outlined key resolutions, noting the willingness of all sides to return to work.
“As indicated to you, and we've made some recommendations, these take into account the conversation we've had and the confirmation by both sides that you all desire to get business going in the County Assembly of Machakos,” she said.
The committee found that the Speaker’s suspension of plenary sittings was illegal, violating Standing Order 25, which requires a resolution of the House. With security concerns now reportedly addressed, the committee directed the Speaker to convene a special sitting within seven days to formally alter the Assembly calendar and resume plenary sessions.
Crucial legislative business had stalled due to the suspension, including the 2024/2025 supplementary budget, 2025/2026 budget estimates, and the Machakos County Valuation Roll, which must be approved by June 6, 2025. “We recommend that the County Assembly convene immediately in accordance with the standing orders relating to the convening of special sittings to consider pending legislative business,” the committee resolved.
The Senate also condemned physical confrontations among MCAs, calling such actions a violation of Chapter 6 of the Constitution on leadership and integrity. The committee urged all members to uphold decorum, unity, and the rule of law.
Addressing the withholding of Assembly funds, the committee directed the County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Finance to release the money immediately, stating that the withholding lacked any legal basis.
Senator Abass called for maturity among the leadership: “With your goodwill, I think Machakos Assembly will resume as soon as possible. I request the House Leadership and the Speaker to meet again and have a dialogue on how best we can drive this House forward.”
The Majority Leader welcomed the Senate’s intervention and called for reconciliation: “We’re in leadership because members elected us. They can also remove us. So we must respect the leadership they’ve placed and allow internal mechanisms to work.”
The Minority Leader echoed the optimism: “We are not going home empty-handed. A long journey begins with a single step. We are now heading in the right direction.”
Senator Richard Onyonka offered personal advice to the Speaker: “You are probably the first woman to hold this office. The expectations are higher. Please do your job with excellence. Be the mother of the House and allow these members to vent.”
Other senators—including Agnes Kavindu, Hezena Lemaletian, Peris Tobiko, and Karungo Thangwa—urged collaboration, patience, and a renewed focus on service delivery. “When leaders fight, the people suffer,” said Senator Thangwa. “Unity will unlock stalled services. The Assembly must work together for the people of Machakos.”
The Senate committee pledged ongoing oversight and support to ensure the Assembly resumes its work effectively and regains the trust of the people.
By PBS
