The leadership of the National Assembly has called for a bipartisan approach to the legislative work as well as fulfillment of its constitutional mandate.

Speaking during the mid-term retreat for Members of the National Assembly in Naivasha, Nakuru County, Majority Leader Hon. Kimani Ichung’wah (Kikuyu) and Minority Leader Hon. Junet Mohamed (Suna East) emphasized the importance of unity among lawmakers in addressing national challenges.

Hon. Ichung’wah noted that significant progress has been achieved through bipartisan cooperation and called for the continuation of this approach.

He pointed out  that working together enables leaders to better address the challenges facing the public.

“We have made substantial milestones as a House by embracing bipartisan approach, and this should remain our guiding principle,” said Hon. Ichung’wah.

The retreat was also attended by the Speaker of the National Moses Wetang’ula, House Business Committee, Chairpersons of House Committees and MPs.

“The challenges facing our nation are too great to be resolved by a single party. We must be conscious of the importance of fostering a bipartisan approach when engaging in our legislative and other business,” said Hon. Junet.

“I urge each one of us to embrace this spirit, put our differences aside and work towards discharging our mandate collectively despite concerns and criticisms regarding the motivation behind the formation of the broad based government,” he  added the Suna East MP.

The five-day retreat is themed "Marshalling House Business: Progress Made and Lessons Learned".

It will allow members to deliberate on critical issues such as the state of the economy and strategies for addressing challenges affecting Kenyans.

Both leaders also addressed the issue of negative publicity directed at the National Assembly due to public statements made by some members.

They urged MPs to adhere to established rules and procedures when communicating about matters before the House.

“We must communicate with accuracy and responsibility to uphold the integrity of this House. Spreading misinformation or making unguarded remarks in public undermines the institution we serve,” said Hon. Ichung’wah.

Hon. Mohamed added: “Any concerns or reservations about matters before the House should be raised within the appropriate forum—the floor of the House—not at public gatherings or events such as funerals. Criticizing the institution we represent in public does more harm than good.”