International Day of Parliamentarism: Passaris defends role of parliament amid mounting scrutiny
By Valerian Khakayi, June 30, 2026Nairobi Woman Representative Esther Passaris has defended the role of Parliament, saying the institution exists to serve the people, protect the Constitution and uphold human rights as Kenya marked the International Day of Parliamentarism.
In a statement released on Tuesday, June 30, 2026, Passaris said the annual observance is a reminder of Parliament’s constitutional mandate and its responsibility to strengthen the country’s democratic institutions.
She stressed that Parliament’s primary responsibility is to work in the interests of citizens while defending Kenya’s constitutional order and ensuring accountability in governance.
“Today, we mark the International Day of Parliamentarism, a reminder that Parliament exists to serve the people, protect the Constitution, uphold human rights, and strengthen our democracy. Happy International Day of Parliamentarism,” Passaris said.
Her remarks come at a time when Parliament has been under increased public scrutiny, with many Kenyans questioning its oversight role, accountability and responsiveness to citizens’ concerns.
Passaris maintained that Parliament remains a key pillar of democracy, tasked with representing the people, enacting laws, overseeing the executive and safeguarding constitutional principles.
International Day of Parliamentarism
The International Day of Parliamentarism is observed every year on June 30 to recognise the important role parliaments play in promoting democracy, accountability, human rights and sustainable development.
The day was established by the United Nations through a resolution adopted in 2018. June 30 was chosen because it marks the anniversary of the founding of the Inter-Parliamentary Union in 1889.
The IPU is the world’s oldest global political organisation, bringing together national parliaments from across the world to promote peace, democracy, dialogue and cooperation. It works closely with the United Nations to strengthen democratic institutions, encourage inclusive governance and support parliaments in addressing global challenges.
Each year, the International Day of Parliamentarism highlights the vital role legislatures play in representing citizens, making laws, overseeing governments and ensuring that public institutions remain transparent and accountable.
The observance also encourages greater participation by women, young people and under-represented groups in parliamentary processes.
As Kenya joined the rest of the world in marking the day, Passaris called for renewed appreciation of Parliament’s constitutional role in serving citizens and safeguarding the country’s democratic values.