Mercy Mwai and Benard Gitau @PeopleDailyKe
The National Assembly yesterdy rejected an attempt by some members to probe the betting and gambling industry. Legislators shot down a motion seeking to create a 13-member select committee to be co-chaired by Leader of Majority Aden Duale and Deputy Leader of Minority Jakoyo Midiwo.
The mood that led to the defeat of the motion set in when legislators started whistling as National Assembly Speaker Justin Muturi read out proposed names to the committee.
And immediately the motion was lost, Midiwo, the sponsor, expressed his disappointment, saying members had erred in their decision not to allow the House to investigate the industry.
He, however, said his resolve to investigate the industry would not stop as he plans to bring amendments to the government-sponsored Gaming and Lotteries Bill. He said it was evident the Bill, whose debate was postponed, did not adequately tackle the issues the motion had intended to address.
Drama played out on the floor of the House after some lawmakers, led Leader of Minority Francis Nyenze questioned how the team of 13 was picked. They openly opposed the membership of the committee saying it was apparent some legislators were driven by interests.
Nyenze kicked off the storm after he sensationally alleged that the motion, which was tabled by Deputy Leader of Minority Jakoyo Midiwo, was not party-sponsored, as it did not bear his signature.
He said for the committee to work, either a departmental committee would take over the investigation of the industry or members who are not in leadership position would be appointed. If approved, the select committee would have had 60 days to do its work.
Meanwhile, Sportpesa chief executive Ronald Karauri has called upon its customers, mostly youth, to be responsible in betting, urging them to take it as a part-time activity.
He said his firm has started a campaign to sensitise its customers on responsible gaming. “Betting should be a part-time activity and we are up to the task to make sure that is adhered too,” he said.
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