MP Pushes for Parliamentary Representation for Kenyans in the Diaspora

Kenyans in diaspora could soon have a representative in Parliament if MPs pass a new Bill to be tabled before the House.

The Bill, being prepared by Ndia MP George Kariuki seeks to introduce amendments to Article 97(1) of the Constitution.

Kariuki wants Kenyans abroad be listed as a special interest group and have a nomination slot set aside for them like it is for youth, women and people living with disabilities.

"The objective of his Bill is to amend the Constitution to expressly include Kenyans in the diaspora as a special interest group qualifying for nomination to the National Assembly under Article 97(1) of the Constitution," he states in a letter to National Assembly Speaker Justin Muturi.

"Enactment of the Bill will allow representation of the group which currently contributes greatly to the economy of the country but is marginalized in terms of representation."

Remittances by Kenyans in diaspora overtook tea, coffee and tourism to become Kenya’s highest foreign exchange earner.