AG launches legislative framework for Public Participation Draft Bill
The Attorney General has unveiled the Public
Participation Draft Bill aimed at establishing a comprehensive legal framework
to ensure the public's views are considered during the development of
government policies.
During an event held at the Kenya School of
Government on Wednesday, Solicitor General Shadrack Mose reaffirmed that if
approved, the Bill would enhance inclusivity, transparency and accountability
during public engagement processes.
Mose, who read the AG's speech, also pointed
out that the Bill would promote meaningful views from all stakeholders, especially
those of marginal groups.
“By securing stakeholder consensus, we can
effectively fulfill the objectives of this policy and support legislative
initiatives across the Executive and Legislature,” read part of the AG's
speech.
The Solicitor General further highlighted
that majority of the Bills are contested in court due to lack of a proper
framework in implementing public participation.
The AG's remarks were echoed by Parliamentary
Affairs Principal Secretary Aurelia Rono, who reiterated the importance of the
initiative to restore public trust in the government.
PS Rono also emphasized the need for
efficient use of resources in public participation to optimize the process and
ensure meaningful engagement.
Following her nomination, AG Odour promised to address the issue of Bills or legislations relating
to the government being declared unconstitutional by the courts, noting that it
was an issue of grave concern.
This after legislations such as Finance Act
2023, the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF), and the Housing Levy were unconstitutional
by the courts for lack of public participation.
“It is the work of the courts to do that as
it is their role. We should ask ourselves about the notoriety. I believe most
legislations we have come up with lately have been to comply with or
operationalize the 2010 Constitution," she said then.
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