Antony Kibagendi, the Member of Parliament for Kitutu Chache South, has been suspended from taking part in parliamentary activities after making remarks that were strongly criticized by the leadership of the National Assembly.
The decision was announced by Speaker Moses Wetangula on Tuesday, February 17, following comments the MP made during a television interview earlier in the day.
While addressing the House, Speaker Wetang’ula said that the statements made by Kibagendi were irresponsible and damaging to the image and dignity of Parliament.
The Speaker pointed out that the MP’s claims, which suggested that Parliament had been “auctioned” and that its leadership had weakened the institution, amounted to bringing the House into disrepute.
According to Wetang’ula, such public statements undermine public confidence in Parliament and its work.
As a result, Kibagendi was ordered to stay away from all parliamentary proceedings until he submits a formal and properly worded apology. The Speaker directed that the apology be delivered to the Clerk of the National Assembly for review before any further action can be taken.
Until then, the MP has been barred from attending plenary sittings, committee meetings, and even accessing his parliamentary office within the precincts of Parliament.
Wetang’ula made it clear that the suspension was meant to protect the integrity of the House and to remind members of their responsibility as public leaders. He emphasized that MPs must exercise caution when speaking publicly, especially in the media, because their statements are closely watched both locally and internationally.
The controversy arose after Kibagendi appeared in an interview on Citizen TV, where he accused the Speaker, Deputy Speaker Gladys Shollei, and MP Duncan Mathenge of turning Parliament into an extension of the Executive.
He further alleged that Parliament had effectively been handed over to State House, claims that quickly sparked concern among fellow lawmakers.
Following the interview, several MPs raised the matter during parliamentary proceedings and urged the Speaker to address what they described as serious accusations against the institution. This prompted Wetang’ula to take immediate disciplinary action against Kibagendi.
In his ruling, the Speaker cautioned legislators against making statements that could damage their own reputations as well as that of Parliament.
He reminded members that when they criticize the institution publicly, they also risk undermining their own roles as representatives within it.
Wetang’ula stressed that MPs are entrusted with representing millions of Kenyans and must therefore conduct themselves with discipline, respect, and responsibility at all times.
He further encouraged lawmakers to focus on constructive debate and meaningful contributions that strengthen democratic processes rather than statements that could erode public trust.
The Speaker concluded by assuring members that maintaining the dignity of Parliament remains a priority under his leadership, noting that the conduct of MPs plays a key role in shaping how citizens view the legislature and its work.
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