Banissa constituents decry lack of representation year after MP Kullow's death

After the death of MP Hassan Kullow in March 2023, the constituency is yet to find a representative in the August House as the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) lacks commissioners. 

Since the retirement of the Wafula Chebukati-led commissioners, there has been a standoff in recruitment of new officials, as parliament is yet to give a way forward on how the new team will be appointed. 

Abdi Bare, a Banissa constituent has called on the National Assembly to fast track the process as residents have been disadvantaged by the lack of representation. 

Banissa residents say children from humble backgrounds, who depend on NG-CDF for bursaries continue to suffer and miss classes as there is no leadership in place.

"Last year, we were adversely affected by El Nino rains, but there was no one to table our plea in parliament. We want a representative," he said. 

Bare called on President William Ruto to implore parliament to solve the IEBC selection panel hiatus and give way for the appointment of new commissioners. 

Mandera Governor Mohamed Khalif echoed the concerns of the residents, highlighting their struggles and unmet needs.

“Due to lack of IEBC commissioners, this constituency has no representation. It is very unfair, Banissa is a worried community because there are programs to be implemented by CDF, and unfortunately we have no MP for 12 months,” he said.

He appealed to the government to expedite the constitution of the IEBC to ensure that the people of Banissa are adequately represented.

He urged National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula to expedite the proposal by Mandera North Member of Parliament that allows a by-election to be done without IEBC commissioners being in place.