National Assembly · Morning Sitting

Hon. (Dr) John K Mutunga highlighted the vast employment and export potential of Kenya's cotton sector, urging the government to subsidise inputs, electricity and support contract farming to boost production. He praised recent policy moves but warned that outdated processing mills, weak value‑chain coordination and lack of market guarantees hinder growth. The speech calls for coordinated public‑private action to revitalize the industry. The session began with routine procedural matters before members raised a motion urging the government to grant priority boarding privileges to Kenya Defence and Special Forces personnel. Debate then shifted to the Public Service Commission (Amendment) Bill, with criticism of the prevalence of acting appointments that are seen to hinder effective service delivery, especially in health and other key sectors. A brief interjection also sought clarification from the Ethics and Anti‑Corruption Commission. Members debated the Public Service Commission (Amendment) Bill, highlighting the need to limit acting appointments to six months, set a clear retirement age of 60, and improve the pension system for retirees. They also stressed the importance of mentoring younger civil servants and creating opportunities for youth employment. Overall, the speakers expressed support for the amendment while critiquing current practices that hinder efficiency and youth participation.