The Marriage (Amendment) Bill Elicits Debate in the House
The Marriage Amendment Bill was read on the floor of the House on Wednesday for the First Time.
Laikipia County Member of Parliament Hon. Jane Kagiri on a point of order challenged the constitutionality of the Bill stating three issues including, the dissolution of marriage after one year or dissolution of marriage based on mutual consent which she said is an affront to the constitution.
Further, she argued that section 66 of the Marriage Act, provides that for a civil marriage, dissolution can only be sought after three years. She pointed out that the sponsor of the Bill had not moved amendments to the Act before presenting the proposed legislation to the House.
Thirdly, she expressed concerns that the Act would allow fictitious marriages in the country, exposing young girls to risks of being taken advantage of by foreigners.
The Speaker however called for the Bill to be read for the First Time.
The concerns of the Bill being unconstitutional were also expressed by Hon. Otiende Amollo and the Leader of Majority Party Hon. Kimani Ichungw’a who called on the sponsor of the Bill to consider withdrawing it.
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