Public participation is a cornerstone of democracy and involves the active involvement of citizens in the decision-making processes that affect their lives. MyVoice aims to enhance public understanding of the legislative process and the importance of public involvement.
Public participation is foundational to democracy, ensuring that all citizens have a say in government decisions. It is a constitutional principle in Kenya, grounded in Articles 1, 10, 35, 118, 119, 124, 201, 221, and 232 of the Constitution of Kenya, as well as the Petitions to Parliament (Procedure) Act, No. 22 of 2012, and the National Assembly Standing Orders. It ranges from simply informing people about parliamentary activities to delegating decision-making power to the public.
Benefits of Public Participation
- Empowering citizens
- Generating diverse and innovative ideas
- Enhancing citizen-government relations
- Legitimation of government programs
- Appropriate prioritization of projects
- Improved delivery of public services
- Increased government responsiveness
Principles of effective public participation
- Be a continuous process and not a one-time event.
- Provide timely and relevant information, accessible all members of the public so they are aware and can engage in decisions that affect them.
- Effective public participation demands attention is given to inclusion and equity so that all groups—women and men of all ages, from marginalized communities, and persons with disabilities are engaged and their needs expressed and considered.
Process of Public Participation in Law Making
When a Bill is introduced in Parliament, it is referred to the relevant committee.
The committee then seeks public views on the Bill through advertisements in the media.
1. Public Involvement
Citizens are encouraged to participate by submitting their views on the Bill.
This can be done through written submissions, memoranda, or appearances before the committee.
2. Committee Engagement
The committee may organize public forums and hearings to gather diverse opinions and insights from stakeholders.
These forums provide an opportunity for direct interaction between Members of Parliament and the public.
3. Compilation of Views
The committee compiles the views and suggestions received from the public.
These inputs are considered during the deliberation and refinement of the Bill.
4. Report Preparation
The committee prepares a report that includes the public’s contributions and the committee’s recommendations.
This report is tabled in Parliament for further debate and consideration.
5. Final Decision
The refined Bill, along with the committee’s report, is debated by the full House.
Members of Parliament may propose further amendments based on the public’s feedback before the Bill is put to a vote.
The”Provision of Sanitary Towels Bill,”2024
The Provision of Sanitary Towels Bill, 2024 aims to ensure the provision of quality, free, and sufficient sanitary towels in public institutions and correctional facilities in Kenya. The bill also establishes an Inter-Ministerial Committee to oversee the implementation and administration of this provision.
Administration on Provision of Sanitary Towels
- Establishment of the Committee: The Inter-Ministerial Committee on Provision of Sanitary Towels is established.
- Composition: The Committee comprises various high-ranking officials including principal secretaries from different ministries, the Attorney-General, and representatives from public benefit organizations and the private sector.
- Functions: The Committee is tasked with advising the government, coordinating the provision of sanitary towels, ensuring the distribution of quality sanitary towels, and developing mechanisms for safe disposal.
- County Interdepartmental Committees: These are established in each county to facilitate local implementation and coordination.
Financial Provisions
- Funding: The Committee’s funds come from monies appropriated by the National Assembly, donations, grants, and other sources.
- Financial Management: Includes provisions for the financial year, annual estimates, accounts, and audit procedures.
- Reporting: The Committee must prepare annual reports and submit them to various national bodies.
Regulatory Framework:
- The Cabinet Secretary is empowered to make regulations to facilitate the effective implementation of the Act.
- The bill also specifies penalties for offences related to the mismanagement or mishandling of sanitary towel provisions.
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