Juja MP George Koimburi has announced plans to table a Motion in the National Assembly seeking to allow lawmakers to debate in their respective mother tongues at designated times each week.
Speaking in his constituency, Koimburi said the proposal aims to enhance representation and cultural inclusivity by giving lawmakers an opportunity to communicate directly in the languages of the communities they serve.
He suggested that MPs be allocated at least two hours every week to contribute to parliamentary debates in their native languages.
“I want to speak Kikuyu during session so that my community can see they have been represented well and they can also be respected,” Koimburi said.
The legislator argued that there is nothing wrong with using indigenous languages in Parliament, noting that such a move would strengthen the connection between elected leaders and their constituents.
“We want the proposal to pass because it is not wrong to speak mother tongue even during parliamentary session or when we are out there with the people,” he added.
Koimburi spoke after the release of 22 members of the Mihiriga Kenda Muiyuru group who had been held for three days at Kibii Police Station in Juja.
The members had been accused of engaging in illegal activities, including female genital mutilation (FGM), but the claims were not substantiated, and they were released on free bond without being produced in court.
The MP criticised the arrests, saying the group’s rights to worship and practise culture had been violated.
He said the group is legally registered and should not be harassed for observing Agikuyu traditions.
Koimburi said he will pursue the proposed parliamentary changes as part of a broader push for cultural recognition in Parliament
