National Assembly · Morning Sitting

Members Nyikal and Baya praised the importance of regulating the boda‑boda and tuk‑tuk sector but argued that existing laws such as the NTSA Act and Traffic Act already cover the matters, warning against duplicate legislation. They highlighted severe safety issues and poor enforcement, calling for stronger implementation and oversight rather than new bills. Both urged the committee to address enforcement gaps and consider withdrawing the proposed Bill. Members debated a proposed amendment aimed at regulating patient referrals and improving emergency healthcare services, citing numerous cases of improper transfers, delays, and financial burdens on families. While they criticised the Ministry of Health and some medical practitioners for inefficiency and personal interests, they expressed strong support for the amendment as a necessary corrective measure. Members highlighted serious shortcomings in Kenya's health referral system, including inadequate public facilities, unregulated overseas referrals, and profit‑driven caesarean sections. They called for clear guidelines, stronger enforcement of existing referral rules, and the establishment of sub‑county referral units under NHIF. The debate combined criticism of current practices with constructive proposals to improve coordination and accountability.