National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula confirmed that only four MPs will have their travel expenses covered for a trip to support Raila Odinga in Ethiopia. About 40 other MPs plan to attend but will self-fund their journey. Questions have been raised regarding the potential misuse of taxpayer money in this context as the election for the AU Commission Chair approaches.
Moses Wetangula, the National Assembly Speaker, confirmed that approximately 40 MPs notified him about their plans to travel to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, in support of Raila Odinga for the AU Commission Chairperson position. However, the National Assembly will only cover the travel expenses for four of these MPs, as requested by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The delegation includes Belgut MP Nelson Koech, the Chairman of the Foreign Affairs Committee. The others are Haiza Mizighi, the chairperson of the Diaspora Affairs Committee, Abdullahi Bashir Sheikh, the vice chair of the Defence Committee, and Millie Odhiambo, Suba North MP and Minority Whip. They will represent the National Assembly in this mission.
Wetangula also acknowledged the remaining 40 MPs who plan to travel for their own reasons, stating they will be self-funded and travel as private citizens. “We laud them for that patriotic duty,” he remarked, showing appreciation for their commitment.
Concerns were raised by Nyandarua Senator John Methu regarding the reported 100 MPs potentially traveling to support Odinga, questioning whether the trips would be funded by taxpayers. He emphasized that significant resources should not be squandered, given that Odinga has his own support team.
The voting for the African Union Commission Chair will take place on February 15, where Odinga will be competing against candidates from Djibouti and Madagascar. All 55 African Presidents will participate in this significant election.
In summary, the National Assembly has confirmed the limited sponsorship for four MPs heading to Ethiopia in support of Raila Odinga’s candidacy. While many other MPs plan to participate, they will travel at their own expense. Concerns about potential misuse of taxpayer funds have been voiced, highlighting the need for fiscal responsibility during this political engagement.
Original Source: www.kenyans.co.ke
