In a recent session at the Bomas of Kenya in Nairobi, the Kenyan Section of the International Commission of Jurists (ICJ-Kenya) presented their perspectives to the National Dialogue Committee.

This session was co-chaired by Hon. Stephen Kalonzo Musyoka and EALA MP Hassan Omar, standing in for the National Assembly Majority leader Kimani Ichung’wah.

Deputy Executive Director Demas Kiprono led the ICJ Kenya team in discussing crucial topics such as the implementation of Article 43 of the constitution and the cost of living. They emphasized issues like corruption, reckless borrowing, and excessive government expenditure as contributing factors.

Kiprono stressed that social and economic rights are fundamental to human rights, aspiring to establish a fair and just society where individuals can lead dignified lives and realize their potential.

He emphasized that safeguarding and promoting these rights are pivotal for constructing an inclusive and prosperous world for all.

Kiprono highlighted that government wastage often stems from inefficiency and mismanagement, diverting resources from essential services. This includes misallocation of funds, inflated contracts, and nonexistent workers on payrolls.

Such wasteful practices hinder development, lead to budget deficits, and prompt additional borrowing. He urged Kenya to prioritize transparency, effective oversight, and accountability mechanisms to combat government waste and corruption.

Addressing corruption, adopting responsible borrowing practices, and enhancing fiscal management can enable Kenya to allocate resources more effectively, reduce disparities, and cultivate an environment conducive to economic growth and societal advancement.

ICJ Kenya also emphasized the need to implement the two-thirds gender rule, underscoring the Supreme Court's pronouncement that parliament failed to uphold this constitutional directive.

They urged parliament to enact clear and precise legislation on the two-thirds gender rule and demonstrate the political will to fully enforce it, preventing situations where constitutional provisions are breached.

Regarding governance matters like promoting national unity and inclusivity in public appointments, ICJ Kenya advocated for deliberate actions to ensure representation of all segments of Kenyan society in appointive leadership at all government levels.

They criticized prevalent issues like political patronage, nepotism, and tribalism influencing political party structures and public appointments, undermining inclusivity and meritocracy principles.

The petition also highlighted the necessity for adequate checks and balances and the separation of powers to instill constitutionalism, the rule of law, democracy, and human rights.

It emphasized the need to embed funds in the constitution and address the constitutionality of the positions of the leader of the official opposition and the office of the prime cabinet secretary.

Julie Wayua Matheka, program manager at ICJ Kenya, stressed the importance of empowering and strengthening independent institutions and the Judiciary to fulfill their mandates. She also advocated for transparency in the recruitment of the select panel for IEBC and its commissioners.

Matheka expressed concerns about the lack of public trust in the current structure and functioning of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC). She called for meaningful engagement with various stakeholders to ensure that the IEBC is inclusive and represents diverse interests.