I Have a Weakness – Oscar Sudi
Kapseret MP Oscar Sudi has openly shared that he’s not really into the usual parliamentary proceedings.
The lawmaker, who’s currently in his third term in the National Assembly, admitted that he doesn’t find much joy in joining his fellow members in the chambers unless there’s something significant on the agenda.
Without going into too much detail, Sudi mentioned that he has a personal struggle that influences how he presents himself in the National Assembly.
“I rarely go. I have a small weakness, and it is not my making. But I would always go when there is serious business in the house,” he said.
His acknowledgment fits right in with earlier surveys that pointed out his lack of activity on the House floor. For example, a past survey by Mzalendo Trust identified him as one of 19 lawmakers who often stay quiet during parliamentary sessions or simply don’t show up at all.
Mzalendo, which keeps a close eye on the Kenyan parliament, noted that these non-speaking legislators tend to be less involved in important discussions happening in the House, such as those about taxes, financial laws, housing, and healthcare.
The lack of their involvement in discussions about crucial national issues and the concerns of their constituents really underscores a significant shortcoming in what parliamentarians are supposed to do: represent the voice of the people.
Even during serious matters in the house, someone like Sudi tends to show up only when things have escalated.
Take the 2024 Finance Bill, for example; he wasn’t around for the initial discussions and only made an appearance when it was time to vote.
Still, despite his lack of engagement in legislative matters, the MP is quite proud of the work he claims to have done for his constituents since he was elected in 2013.
He particularly highlights his efforts in education, boasting that he eliminated fees for day schools throughout Kapseret.
According to him, he has set up at least five day schools to ensure that students from low-income families have better access to education.
On top of waiving fees, he also mentions running a free lunch program for public schools, which he funds himself.
He believes that his educational initiatives have led to an increase in school enrollments.
“When parents were paying the fees, the number of students was low, but when we came in and paid 100% of the fees, schools that had 300 students now have between 500 and 600. It means many parents could not pay for the fees, and we came to pay for all students in all the day schools in Kapseret,” he said.
I Have a Weakness – Oscar Sudi
