Basic Education Principal Secretary (PS) Julius Bitok will appear before the National Assembly’s Departmental Committee on Education next Tuesday after missing a scheduled budget presentation, an absence that legislators initially criticised as a snub.
Bitok later clarified that his failure to attend was the result of a miscommunication, not disregard for Parliament.
Addressing the committee, Bitok apologised for the delay and emphasised his respect for the oversight role of lawmakers.
“Let me begin by registering my apologies to the committee for turning up late. Earlier, there was a miscommunication, and I take responsibility for what happened. I want to say I’m very sorry to the committee because a committee of Parliament is a very serious engagement and we have no intention whatsoever to disrespect or ignore any summons,” Bitok said.
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Bitok confirmed his readiness to present the ministry’s proposals on the rescheduled date, expressing hope for a constructive relationship with legislators.
“We are ready to appear on Tuesday as directed, and we look forward to a cordial working relationship with the committee so that we can further the interests of Kenyan learners,” he said.
Committee Chairperson Julius Melly acknowledged the PS’s explanation, saying members had not received timely communication about his earlier absence.
“Because the team was tired and now it is late, PS, we shall agree that you had a lot of national engagements. However, we did not get proper communication. As a committee, we will reschedule you for Tuesday morning to make your presentation,” Melly said.
The upcoming session will allow the Ministry of Education to formally present and defend its budgetary proposals before the committee, which is mandated to oversee policy, funding, and implementation in the education sector.
By Masaki Enock
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