National Assembly Deputy Clerk Jeremiah Ndombi has called upon committee clerks and parliamentary liaison officers from state departments to cultivate harmonious relationships to promote effective governance.
Inaugurating a three-day meeting between clerks of committees and parliamentary liaison officers in Mombasa, Ndombi likened their role to that of Biblical John the Baptist, who paved the way for the arrival of Jesus Christ.
"Clerks of committees and parliamentary liaison officers should emulate John the Baptist, preparing the path for the executive and legislative branches. Just as John the Baptist was not the messiah but facilitated his arrival, our role is to facilitate the work of MPs and members of the Executive," Ndombi emphasised.
He stressed that their duty is not to formulate policy but to facilitate interactions between Cabinet Secretaries, Principal Secretaries, Chief Executive Officers, and Members of Parliament.
Ndombi encouraged friendship between Parliament, Executive, and oversight bodies, and advocated for proactive dialogue and cooperation rather than waiting for formal invitations or summonses.
"We should foster collaboration and mutual understanding, working towards the welfare of Kenyan citizens," he advised.
Ndombi expressed Parliament's willingness to cooperate with forward-thinking individuals, emphasising their commitment to facilitating members of the executive for the benefit of the nation.
Director of Departmental Committees, Peter Chemweno, echoed Ndombi's sentiments and urged committee clerks and parliamentary liaison officers to engage in constructive dialogue to resolve conflicts between branches of government.
Chemweno emphasised the importance of establishing mechanisms for resolving disputes and disagreements in a constructive manner to maintain a harmonious working relationship.
He suggested that committees' clerks and PLOs could mediate in cases of disputes, bridging gaps and finding common ground.
Furthermore, he encouraged negotiation and compromise as a means of reaching mutually acceptable solutions to contentious issues.
Chemweno proposed that committee clerks and PLOs collaborate by forming joint working groups to address specific issues or policy areas, fostering a more coordinated approach to problem-solving.
He also recommended regular assessments of collaboration to identify areas for improvement and make necessary adjustments.
By establishing clear communication channels, sharing information, and working together effectively, he said both parties can ensure seamless engagement, promote transparency, and enhance the overall governance process.