No foreign travel for Kenya ministers

President Kibaki has barred Cabinet Ministers and their assistants from travelling outside Kenya to ensure they attend parliamentary debates on the draft Constitution.

The House is supposed to debate contents of the draft for 30 days after which it would be published and subjected to a national referendum.

A circular dated last Friday and released by the Government on Monday indicated the step was taken to ensure ministers attended the House sessions.

It was signed by the Head of Public Service, Mr Francis Muthaura and copied to Prime Minister Raila Odinga and Vice President Kalonzo Musyoka.

“I’m directed to inform you that during this time when parliament is considering the draft Constitution. Ministers and assistant ministers will not be allowed to travel outside the country,” read part of the circular.

Protocol

Government protocol requires that ministers get clearance from the President before travelling abroad.

Proceedings in parliament are at times marred by lack of quorum and the Speaker has on several occasions warned ministers to be available in the House to answer questions involving their dockets.

Government Spokesman Alfred Mutua released the circular to journalists and said ministers’ absence in the House had been explained by travels abroad.

"The President has said this will take effect immediately," Dr Mutua said.