By Antynet Ford
President William Ruto intervened on Tuesday to rectify a breach in protocol by inviting Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua to deliver remarks after being skipped.
The meeting was at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC), where Ruto had assented the IEBC Bill of 2024.
Following the signing of the Bill, National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah, who co-chaired the National Dialogue Committee, delivered his comments and then extended the invitation to the other co-chair, Kalonzo Musyoka.
Subsequently, after Kalonzo concluded his speech, Ichung’wah proceeded to invite Azimio leader Raila Odinga, who, in turn, was requested to invite President William Ruto following his address.
Raila invited the President to deliver his remarks.
However, Ruto deviated from the norm and invited Gachagua to share a few words before addressing the nation.
“In light of the speeches delivered by esteemed leaders, I now turn to my deputy to offer his insights before I conclude.” Ruto called Gachagua.
In official gatherings, it is customary for the Deputy President to extend an invitation to the President to speak.
Raila and Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka were present as President William Ruto ratified the IEBC (Amendment) Bill of 2024.
This Bill signifies a crucial step resulting from the discussions held by the National Dialogue Committee.
The enactment of this legislation will establish the electoral management framework, paving the way for the appointment of new IEBC commissioners.
The President had faced mounting pressure to endorse the IEBC Bill, amidst public demands for the recall of MPs who supported the contentious Finance Bill of 2024.
Opposition figures and certain members of the clergy had been advocating for the signing of the Bill to facilitate the restructuring of the electoral body.
Read also:- NCCK Calls for Reconstitution of the IEBC
