MP who stripped in support of Raila loses bid to block Ruto from the presidency

- Ouda argued Ruto has served his two terms as deputy president under Uhuru

- MPs however dismissed the motion as it is not anchored on principle

- Speaker Muturi termed the motion a waste of MPs' time

A motion seeking to bar Deputy President William Ruto from running for the presidency in 2022 General Election literally died on its arrival on the floor with MPs terming it a waste of time.

It took Kisumu Central MP Fred Ouda seven minutes to propose the constitutional amendment arguing the deputy president has served his two terms alongside Uhuru hence he should not vie.

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It took Kisumu Central MP Fred Ouda seven minutes to propose the constitutional amendment arguing the deputy president has served his two terms alongside Uhuru. Photo: Fred Ouda/Facebook.

Ouda further sought necessary amendments which could also out deputy governors on similar grounds, stating they too are not entitled to run.

The lawmakers led by Leader of Majority Aden Duale wasted no time dismissing the petitioner.

"This is one of the petitions which I doubt you should commit to the committee. While there is a right to bring any petition, this is a petition which invites the interpretation of the constitution on a matter that is not before this House.

"To that extent, it is unconstitutional. The petition goes beyond the question of the deputy presidency. I urge this petition be killed right now," Rarieda MP Otiende Amollo opposed.

In July 2015, as an MCA in Siaya county assembly, Ouda stripped in protest of what he said is disrespect for opposition leader Raila Odinga. Photo: Standard.

On his part, nominated MP David Ole Sangok warned Speaker Justin Muturi against allowing malicious motions meant to block a Kenyan from enjoying a constitutional right.

"It not only malicious but also brought with intention with blocking one person from ascending to presidency. Ouda, I know you have not been active in this House and you have got airtime.

"This petition requires a referendum. I know these are paid people to malign this House and we cannot allow that," he added.

Muturi directed the motion not be referred to the Parliamentary Legal Committee for lacking threshold.

He however agreed it was within the controversial former MCA's right to make further proposals nonetheless.

"It will be a waste of time because you are seeking for interpretation of various provisions," said the Speaker.

In July 2015, as an MCA in Siaya County Assembly, Ouda shocked many when he stripped in protest of what he said was disrespect for Opposition leader Raila Odinga.