By Collins Wanzallah, THE DISPATCH DIGITAL
Attorney General Dorcas Oduor has held discussions with the Clerk of the National Assembly, Samuel Njoroge, regarding the Public Participation Bill.
According to a statement issued to newsrooms, the meeting highlighted an intergovernmental initiative supported by both offices, which may soon result in a comprehensive legal framework for public participation in Kenya.
During the meeting, which took place at Sheria House, Njoroge briefed the Attorney General on previous parliamentary attempts to draft this crucial law. The legislation aims to ensure the direct involvement of citizens in decision-making processes, particularly in matters that directly affect them.
“Article 10(2)(a) of the Constitution explicitly recognises public participation as a national value and governance principle that binds all state organs, officers, and public officials when making and implementing policy decisions,” Njoroge stated.
Attorney General Oduor noted that the courts have previously provided guidance on the requirements and limitations concerning public participation in past rulings. She stressed the need for Parliament to establish a comprehensive legal framework to guide these processes.
“It has become increasingly necessary to harmonise efforts across government by formulating comprehensive legislation through a multisectoral consultative process that addresses the principle of public participation,” Oduor remarked.
Leader of the Majority Party in the National Assembly, Kimani Ichungwa, has already drafted a legislative proposal, the Public Participation Bill 2024, which aims to provide a framework for effective public engagement.
The proposal seeks to give effect to the constitutional principles of public participation and participatory democracy as outlined in Articles 1, 10, 35, 69, 118, 174, 184, 196, 201, and 232 of the Constitution. It also outlines guiding principles for institutions conducting public participation and designates responsible authorities to develop specific guidelines for these processes within public institutions.