Controversial KDF Bill in second reading stage

The controversial Kenya Defence Forces Amendment Bill 2015 that seeks to remove the role of Parliament’s role in deploying of military officers in areas affected by violence is now in the second reading stage.

Should the bill sail through this stage, it will then proceed to the committee stage where Members of the National Assembly can make proposals or amendments to the bill before it goes to the report stage where it is tendered to the National assembly.

Once the bill is adopted, it will proceed to the third reading where members for the third time will make contributions and debate proceeds.

Should the Bill be passed by the National Assembly and President Uhuru Kenyatta assents to it, the defence forces will not be subject to civilian oversight as far as spending of public money is concerned.

If passed, the Bill will strip the line Cabinet Secretary powers to delegate or assign any duty to the Chief of Defence Forces.

It will also enable the Chief of Defence Forces to delegate, even to civilian employees, without restriction.

The term of the Chief of Defence Forces, his vice chief and service commanders could be extended by a year.

The Bill will strip the Inspector General powers to oversee administration, command, control and overall superintendence of operations where KDF are deployed to restore peace in the country.

Restrictiveness of Brigadier requirements could be relaxed, while the independence of the office of the director of military prosecutions will be enabled.

The Bill, if passed, will do away with the provision requiring the government to compensate families of KDF personnel who suffer disabilities or death while in training

An auxiliary reserve force that includes the Kenya Forest Service, Kenya Wildlife Service and National Youth Service will be put in place.

The Defence Council will also not be required to report to the President and parliament on matters deemed prejudicial to national security.

The Bill, forwarded to parliament by Attorney General Githu Muigai through the Parliamentary Defence Committee Chair Ndung’u Githinji, was published by Majority Leader Aden Duale.