Raila Odinga Calls for Constitutional Amendments to Curb Presidential Powers
Raila Odinga, the leader of Azimio, on Saturday, May 18, boldly suggested making changes to the constitution to eliminate certain presidential powers that enable the head of state to appoint executives.
Speaking at a gathering in Suna East, Migori County, Raila asserted that some government officials within the executive branch were abusing their authority.
Specifically, the leader of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) voiced his opposition to the creation of roles like County Commissioners and Sub-County Commissioners.
During his address at the rally, Odinga accused a commissioner in Migori of instigating a conflict against Migori County Governor Ochilo Ayacko at a previous funeral event.
Raila claimed that the county commissioner had allegedly organized a group of police officers to confront the governor at a burial ceremony in Migori.
The Azimio leader argued that the constitution did not provide for a provincial administration, suggesting that the role had been supplanted by the governor’s office under the new constitution.
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“Because of this, the role of county commissioner should not be abused. We could consider amending the constitution again to limit some of the president’s powers regarding state appointments,” Raila challenged.
“The current constitution we’ve adopted does not recognize the existence of a provincial administration; instead, the governor’s position is constitutionally established,” the ODM leader emphasized.
Raila also accused county commissioners of misusing their authority, alleging that their actions were undermining the principles of devolution.
“The governor, being elected by the people, deserves respect. When attending events like funerals, the governor should be accorded respect as it should be mutual,” Odinga asserted.
Additionally, Odinga urged politicians to refrain from starting election campaigns prematurely, stressing the importance of elected officials focusing on serving their constituents.
“I’m still here for you, though I’ve been away because of engagements across Africa, meeting with presidents. Just yesterday, I was with President Museveni,” Raila remarked.
Raila Odinga Calls for Constitutional Amendments to Curb Presidential Powers