By standard on Saturday team

President Kibaki and Vice-President Kalonzo Musyoka put a brave face even after the Government suffered defeat on a crucial vote on the Bill to establish a local tribunal to try post-election violence instigators.

The VP termed last Thursday’s defeat as “just a hiccup”.

The President underscored the importance of MPs’ involvement in attaining Agenda Four that encompasses comprehensive reforms to address deep-seated historical injustices.

“I wish to assure all Kenyans that my Government is determined to end the culture of impunity and promote justice, reconciliation and national cohesion.

“I wish to appeal to MPs to show full commitment to these objectives which are key ingredients of Agenda Four of the National Accord and Reconciliation Act,” said Kibaki.

other options

In an apparent reference to Thursday’s defeat of the Constitution of Kenya (Amendment) Bill 2009 and the Special Tribunal for Kenya Bill 2009, Kibaki said: “It is important that you (MPs) bear in mind that whatever happens in Parliament has far reaching implications on the country as a whole and its regional and international standing.

Our deliberations must be based on truthful information and driven by the ultimate goal of safeguarding our national integrity, peace, stability and prosperity”.

Kalonzo, who accompanied the President to a workshop for MPs on the new Standing Orders at Safari Park Hotel, Nairobi, gave indications that the Government has the option of reintroducing the two Bills.

He noted the new Standing Orders give leeway for a Bill to be re-introduced at the same stage its business was concluded in the last session.

But he cautioned the re-introduction should not be rushed as this would result in another defeat.

No regrets

At the same time, the International Commission of Jurists (ICJ) demanded that former UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan opens the Waki Envelope and make known leaders suspected to have perpetrated the chaos.

ICJ Chairman Alfred Nderitu said it was necessary for Annan to make known those implicated by the Waki Report, especially after Parliament made a decision that would see prime suspects headed to The Hague.

Meanwhile, MPs who voted against the establishment of a local tribunal said they have no regrets for their decision.

Led by Roads Assistant Minister Wilfred Machage and MPs Mithika Linturi (Igembe) and Charles Onyancha (Bonchari), the MPs said shooting down the Bill was the best option after the Government declined to include amendments they had proposed to Justice Minister Martha Karua.

Reports by Francis Ngige, Peter Opiyo and Beuattah Omanga