What do you believe is the single most important factor driving up the cost of living in Nigeria?

National Assembly Chambers full as Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua defends himself against an impeachment motion on Oct 8, 2024. [Elvis Ogina, Standard]

Members of Parliament have been accused by some observers of neglecting the interests of the people they represent and instead focusing on issues that should not even feature in public debate.

During campaigns, parliamentary candidates make grand promises to the electorate, but once in office, there is little effort to fulfil them.

Kenyans claim that most public participation exercises initiated by MPs are merely superficial. A case in point is the Finance Bill 2024. Despite widespread public opposition, the National Assembly passed the bill. Between June and August, discontent among Kenyans, particularly the youth, reached unprecedented levels, with many moving from online activism to street protests, demanding better governance.

Protesters also called for the reconstitution of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), to recall MPs who had failed in their parliamentary duties.

• Read More