Bahati MP Kimani Ngujiri has been a target of criticism from majority of Kenyans after voting yes for the BBI bill on Thursday, May 6.
It was unexpected for Ngujiri to endorse the constitution amendment bill that he had spent a lot of energy in opposing.
The legislator has defended his actions, citing his democratic rights as the reason why he voted yes on the bill.
He said that it does not mean he is decamping from DP William Ruto’s team which has been advocating for a No vote for the bill.
“My vote does not in any way amount to a betrayal of William Ruto. I voted yes because of the benefits we are getting as Nakuru county…….As for the MP’s that voted NO, I respect their decision. We are our people’s servants and we have to represent their views,” Ngujiri stated.
Ngujiri argued that he saw the goodies that the BBI has for his people back in Nakuru County.
The County is set to benefit by getting 5 more constituencies, a benefit that he could not sit and watch it bypass him.
“Getting five more constituencies and more funds to the county government means we will have more development at the grassroots level. My conscience, therefore, could not allow me to vote against more money to the grassroots,” he said.
However, Ngujiri is not the only ally of DP Ruto who voted for the bill. Others include Nominated MP David Ole Sankok, Joash Nyamoko, Purity Kathambi, Kareke Mbiuki, David Gikaria and Malulu Injendi.
The weight from Ruto allies and other MPs allied to President Uhuru and Raila Odinga saw the bill pass through the National Assembly successfully.
A total of 235 MPs voted for the bill, while 83 voted against it. The constitution amendment bill is set to undergo the same process in the Senate and thereafter, Kenyans will vote on a referendum.
