Kingi rejects Senator Methu's request for special sitting to address abductions

Senate Speaker Amason Kingi has rejected a request by Nyandarua Senator John Methu for a special sitting of the currently in-recess Upper House to deliberate on the surge in abductions and forced disappearances of government critics across the country.

In a rejoinder on Tuesday, Kingi referenced Standing Order 33(1) of the Senate which provides guidelines on when the House can be convened for a special sitting.

According to Kingi, the clause dictates that only the Senate’s Majority and Minority Leaders can write to him requesting a special sitting of the House.

He added that both leaders must have the support of at least 15 Senators for the request to be approved.

“I note that the request is anchored on Standing Order 33(1) of the Senate Standing Orders which provides that- ‘Whenever during a Session the Senate stands adjourned, whether or not a day has been appointed for the next meeting, the Speaker may, on the request of the Senate Majority Leader or the Senate Minority Leader, and in each case with the support of at least fifteen Senators, appoint a day for a special sitting of the Senate’,” Kingi said.

He further stated that Methu’s request does not meet the same criteria.

"From the foregoing. it is clear that your request does not meet the requirements set out in standing order 33(1) for the following reasons- A request for a special sitting should originate from the Senate Majority Leader or the Senate Minority Leader; and a request for a special sitting is to be supported by at least fifteen senators,” said the Senate Speaker.

Methu made the request via a letter addressed to Kingi on December 27, 2024, emphasising that the alarming abduction cases are of critical national importance.

“This matter has raised deep national concern as it infringes on the fundamental human rights and freedoms enshrined in our Constitution, including the freedom of expression, association, and the right to life and security,” the Senator wrote.

With the National Police Service (NPS) and Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) absolving themselves of responsibility, Methu further suggested the existence of an organized criminal syndicate operating beyond Police Inspector General Douglas Kanja’s control.

“This syndicate appears to target and silence critics of the current administration. Mr. Speaker, this House must take the necessary steps to demand immediate action by the government to stop these illegal and unconstitutional practices,” the Senator added.

“Given the urgency and gravity or this matter, I request you to convene this special sitting to debate and adopt actionable recommendations to safeguard the rights and freedoms of all Kenyans.”