MP to Table Motion on Use of Kikuyu Language in Parliament

Juja Member of Parliament (MP) John Kiomburi has announced plans to introduce a motion in the National Assembly seeking to allow MPs to use the Kikuyu language during debates.

The initiative is aimed at promoting inclusivity and acknowledging Kenya’s cultural diversity in legislative processes.

Kiomburi said the motion will propose that Kikuyu be used for a set period during parliamentary sittings, enabling members to express themselves in a language familiar to them and their constituents.

He highlighted the importance of giving the Kikuyu community a stronger voice in national decision-making.

Speaking about the motion, Kiomburi stressed that the purpose is to ensure the Kikuyu community feels recognized and represented in the House.

“We want to make sure that the Kikuyu people have proper representation in Parliament, and also because the Kikuyu language is spoken with a majority of the people, including non natives,” he said.

He added that allowing an indigenous language in Parliament could also make debates more engaging and accessible to citizens who follow proceedings from their communities.

He clarified that the motion is not intended to sideline other languages but to highlight the significance of Kikuyu in national discourse.

Motion to Strengthen Cultural Recognition

Kiomburi further said that the initiative would help reinforce respect for the Kikuyu community and encourage broader participation in parliamentary discussions.

He has begun reaching out to fellow lawmakers and government officials to build support for the proposal.

Also Read: “I Will Not Defend Him”: Gachagua Distances Himself from Raphael Tuju’s Legal Troubles

Constitutional and Procedural Considerations

Kenya’s Constitution recognises English, Kiswahili, and Kenyan Sign Language as official languages in Parliament.

Some experts caution that introducing a regional language could create challenges for interpreting laws and maintaining official records.

Also Read: Parliament Rejects TikTok Ban, Opts for Tough New Rules to Regulate Platform

Despite these concerns, supporters argue that the motion is a positive step toward embracing Kenya’s linguistic diversity and giving communities a stronger connection to national governance.

Kiomburi’s proposal will be formally presented in the upcoming parliamentary session, setting the stage for a debate on how indigenous languages can be integrated into national legislative processes.

Follow our WhatsApp channel for instant news updates

John Kiomburi, MP for Juja following a parliamentary by-election on May 19. PHOTO/ Courtsey