National Assembly Speaker Justin Muturi during the official opening of a two-day induction retreat in Mombasa, October 4, 2017. [Photo|Parliament of Kenya]
National Assembly Speaker Justin Muturi, has joined Jubilee Party MPs and leadership, in defending the controversial Electoral Laws (Amendment) Bill.He said the proposed changes to the Bill are constitutional and should be passed by both National and Senate Assemblies, to ensure smooth electoral process, before the country holds the October 26th fresh presidential election.Speaking when he officially opened a two-day induction retreat in Mombasa (Serena Hotel) for members of the Speakers panel who were recently voted for by the House, Muturi said the laws will immediately be implemented once the Bill is passed and signed by President Uhuru Kenyatta.He further asked members of the Speakers panel who include Deputy Speaker Moses Cheboi, Chairpersons Narok County Woman Representative Soipan Tuya, Luanda MP Christopher Omulele, Kibwezi East lawmaker Jessica Mbalu and Lakipia West MP Patrick Mariru, to the House is behaves in an orderly manner.The members of the chairperson's panel are selected by the Speaker in consultation with leaders of Parliamentary Parties pursuant to Standing Order no. 16, to preside over the House in the absence of the Speaker and the Deputy Speaker.