MP Robert Mbui Suspended as Chaos Rocks Parliament Over Government-Owned Enterprises Bill

MP Robert Mbui Suspended as Chaos Rocks Parliament Over Government-Owned Enterprises Bill

Chaos erupted in the National Assembly on Thursday afternoon as lawmakers clashed over the controversial Government‑Owned Enterprises Bill, which seeks to pave the way for the privatisation of 67 state corporations.

The heated debate saw opposition members raise concerns about the manner in which the bill was being processed, with Deputy Minority Whip and Kathiani Member of Parliament Robert Mbui leading the protests. Mbui claimed that the proposed law was passed without a proper quorum and accused the executive of exerting undue influence over parliamentary proceedings.

Opposition legislators demanded that the bill be deferred to next week to allow for further scrutiny. However, Deputy Speaker Gladys Boss Shollei dismissed the objections and permitted Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah to proceed with reading the bill.

Attempt to Seize the Mace

The situation escalated when Mbui, visibly frustrated, attempted to grab the parliamentary mace—a symbol of authority in the House. He was quickly stopped by the Deputy Speaker, who warned him against such actions.

Shollei rebuked Mbui for disorderly conduct and accused him of gross misconduct. She subsequently suspended him and Embakasi South MP Julius Mawathe for five days, ordering the sergeants‑at‑arms to escort them out of the chamber.

“Order, honourable members! Honourable Mbui, if you want to make a point of order, you have to do it with respect. You cannot do it disrespectfully. You can also not attempt to remove the mace from its place,” Shollei said.

“For that reason, you have committed gross misconduct and, contrary to Standing Order 107A, I ask the sergeants‑at‑arms to remove you from the precincts of Parliament,” she added.

Mbui Responds

Speaking to the press outside Parliament moments after his suspension, Mbui expressed disappointment with the Deputy Speaker’s handling of the session. He accused Shollei of bias and claimed that opposition members were denied a fair opportunity to raise points of order.

“I am uncomfortable with the manner in which the Deputy Speaker managed the House today afternoon. There was no reason for her to deny us an opportunity to stand on a point of order,” Mbui said.

He further criticised Majority Leader Ichung’wah, alleging that he was given undue leeway to insult opposition leaders.

“The majority leader cannot be given the leeway every day to insult leaders that are in the House. Not only is he insulting leaders who are in the House, he is also insulting leaders who are not here,” Mbui added.

Wider Implications

The Government‑Owned Enterprises Bill has sparked sharp divisions in Parliament, with supporters arguing that privatisation will enhance efficiency and reduce the financial burden on taxpayers. Critics, however, warn that the move could lead to job losses and weaken state control over strategic sectors.

The suspension of Mbui and Mawathe underscores the growing tension between government and opposition lawmakers as the country grapples with economic reforms. Analysts say the incident highlights the challenges of balancing executive priorities with parliamentary independence.

Conclusion

As the November 27 by‑elections and broader legislative agenda approach, the confrontation over the Government‑Owned Enterprises Bill has placed Parliament under intense scrutiny. The suspension of two MPs, coupled with accusations of bias and disorder, reflects the high stakes surrounding Kenya’s economic reform process and the political battles it continues to ignite.

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MP Robert Mbui Suspended as Chaos Rocks Parliament Over Government-Owned Enterprises Bill