Sittings

Senators highlighted the delayed approval of audited financial reports, which they say hampers revenue collection and the effective disbursement of the Equalisation Fund. They also debated the inter‑linked amendments to the County Allocation of Revenue Bill and the Division of Revenue Bill, stressing the need for coordinated action. Procedural points of order led to the motion being deferred to a later sitting for further consideration. Senators debated the allocation of the Equalisation Fund, condemning recent cuts by the National Assembly and stressing that marginalised counties such as Turkana, Tana River and Meru are still lacking water and electricity. They urged rejection of the proposed reduction and called for the fund to be used as originally intended to address infrastructure deficits. The exchange featured sharp criticism of perceived impunity and inter‑house disagreements over resource distribution. Senator Mungatana criticised the delayed audit reports and highlighted extensive financial mismanagement in several county assemblies, accusing oversight bodies like the EACC of being ineffective and a drain on public funds. He urged the Senate PAC to remove non‑productive officers, involve prosecuting authorities, and ensure actual arrests and charges for misappropriations. The remarks reflect frustration over a lack of accountability and calls for procedural reforms.

Members broadly praised the Committee on Appointments and expressed support for the 19 cabinet secretary nominees, highlighting the thorough vetting process and the inclusion of youth. However, concerns were raised about the rejection of nominee Stella Soi and calls were made for clearer, separate tax amendment bills and more prudent fiscal policies. The debate combined commendation with criticism of specific decisions and policy suggestions. Members lauded the newly nominated cabinet for its regional, gender and youth representation and urged Parliament to give the President space to implement his agenda. They also warned of the dangers of political division, citing regional instability, and stressed the urgent need for job creation and robust parliamentary oversight. The overall tone combined strong support with cautionary reminders about governance and economic performance. Hon. John Mbadi delivered a farewell address emphasizing the need to expand the tax base, improve the Electronic Tax Invoice Management System for small businesses, and strengthen corporate governance at the Kenya Revenue Authority, while urging prudent use of Article 223 to balance the fiscal framework. He expressed gratitude, sought forgiveness, and called for continued cooperation across party lines. Interjections from other members highlighted party recognition issues and procedural matters, but the overall tone remained respectful and constructive.

Members debated the Cotton Industry Development Bill, repeatedly deferring its consideration due to the sponsor’s absence and procedural concerns, highlighting tensions over agenda management. The House then shifted to a motion urging the inclusion of mental healthcare services in all health facilities, with members emphasizing the urgency of addressing stress and mental health challenges among Kenyans. The exchange reflects both procedural frustration and constructive policy advocacy. Members debated the growing mental‑health crisis, urging expansion of the 2015‑2030 Mental Health Policy, de‑criminalisation of suicide and stronger community‑level services. They criticised inadequate facilities such as the dilapidated Mathari Hospital and called for more psychologists, social health workers and an updated Mental Health Act. The discussion highlighted links between mental health, gender‑based violence and the need for better data and budgeting. Members highlighted the urgent need to overhaul Kenya's mental health policy, calling for training, dedicated clinics in every county and workplace accommodations. They also drew attention to the hardships faced by police and prison officers in remote constituencies like Lamu East, linking inadequate infrastructure and stigma to worsening mental health outcomes.

The Senate morning sitting opened with the Speaker confirming quorum by ringing the Quorum Bell and instructing members to stand. No substantive debate or policy discussion took place in this excerpt.

The Deputy Speaker instructed that clarification on NG‑CDF appointments be sought in writing to the board rather than summoning the CEO, prompting members to argue for the CEO’s appearance and faster filling of vacant positions, especially for persons with disabilities. Hon. Benard Kitur and Hon. Robert Mbui stressed the need for clear timelines and broader representation across age, gender and disability groups, while warning against stifling debate. The exchange highlighted tensions between procedural caution and calls for greater transparency and accountability. Members debated the Division of Revenue Bill, emphasizing that the basis for allocations should be the latest approved audited financial statements rather than submitted figures. Concerns were raised about delayed and incomplete disbursement of county funds, alleged mismanagement, and the fiscal impact of the rejected Finance Bill, while some MPs expressed support for the bill and called for faster auditing and revenue collection. Members debated the Division of Revenue (Amendment) Bill, highlighting gaps in devolution where many functions and funds remain with the national government despite constitutional mandates. They called for better alignment of the budget process, stronger county revenue generation, and stricter scrutiny of how allocated funds are used, while also proposing expenditure cuts and incentives to broaden the tax base. The discussion combined criticism of current shortcomings with constructive proposals for reform.

Senators debated the report on the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC) nominees, commending the Standing Committee on Finance and Budget for its thorough vetting while urging greater transparency and public awareness of the process. They called for increased youth participation, clearer communication of the SRC’s mandate, and considered expanding the Senate’s role in vetting cabinet secretaries and other appointments. The discussion balanced praise for existing procedures with constructive criticism aimed at improving accountability and inclusivity. The Senate committees recommended the approval of Dr. Patrick Omwanda Amoth as Director General for Health, highlighting his clean financial record and non‑partisan stance. Members also debated the adequacy of public participation in health policy formulation and criticised the rushed 14‑day confirmation window, calling for a review of the Public Appointment Parliamentary Approval Act. The discussion balanced endorsement of the nominee with calls for procedural reforms to ensure transparency and regional diversity. Senators discussed the challenges faced by Kenyans who lose academic certificates, urging the Ministry and KNEC to provide a seamless, preferably free, replacement system and to digitise all certificates to curb fraud and create youth employment. The debate also touched on historical land injustices in the coastal region and included a comparative praise of Rwanda’s governance and anti‑corruption measures. Procedural reminders limited further comments on petitions.

The Temporary Speaker directed that matters raised about Garissa be consolidated and addressed in a committee meeting with the Cabinet Secretary, urging members to report back to the House. The Leader of the Majority Party outlined the upcoming business schedule, including a possible special sitting before a recess, and a motion was moved to approve the appointment of Dr. Patrick Omwanda Amoth as Director‑General for Health following a detailed selection process. Members highlighted pervasive corruption and governance weaknesses, such as prolonged acting CEO appointments and institutions operating for years without title deeds, urging rapid implementation of the Public Investments Committee report. Hon. Oundo called for stronger parliamentary capacity to enforce audit findings and resolve land‑ownership documentation gaps. Both speakers stressed the need for concrete action to improve accountability and service delivery. Members of the National Assembly praised Dr. Patrick Amoth’s leadership during the COVID‑19 pandemic and his achievements in malaria control, arguing that his prolonged acting status is an injustice. They urged his confirmation as Director‑General of Health, emphasizing merit‑based appointments and national unity. The debate was largely supportive, with calls for broader confirmation of acting officials who have served the country.

Several senators used Standing Order No.53 to request statements from various committees on issues such as road rehabilitation in Turkana, insurance coverage for Nyandarua County vehicles, mineral exploration, the World Bank‑funded water‑supply project in Taita‑Taveta, and governance disputes in Meru County. Senator Mohamed Chute then made a statement denying false reports of his arrest by the EACC, accusing the commission’s CEO of defamation and announcing legal action. The sitting was largely procedural but featured notable tension surrounding the EACC allegations. Sen. Cheruiyot highlighted widespread illegal occupation of public land and argued that the proposed Land Title (Amendment) Bill would safeguard public institutions by mandating registration and issuance of certificates. The discussion included specific clauses of the Bill, examples of disputes involving NSSF, universities and private developers, and procedural remarks from the Deputy Speaker and other senators. While the tone was largely constructive in advocating reform, moments of procedural confusion and informal commentary added a mixed emotional nuance. The Senate debated the authenticity of letters concerning the Senate nominee to the Salaries and Remuneration Commission, with members urging the committee to engage experts for verification. The Speaker directed the Standing Committee on Finance and Budget to address these concerns while also tabling pest‑control regulations and a report on the Equalization Fund Appropriation Bill.

Senator Ogola highlighted widespread injustices in land allocation, compensation and adjudication, citing specific cases where private owners have been denied compensation and public land has been misused. He urged completion of the land adjudication process, better physical planning for residential areas, and accelerated digitisation of title deeds, while supporting the Land (Amendment) Bill as a remedy. Senators urged support for the Land (Amendment) Bill, arguing that comprehensive registration of public, community and private land is essential to curb corruption, resolve title disputes and facilitate orderly urban development. They highlighted procedural bottlenecks that delay title issuance, cited specific cases of land grabbing and unregistered public‑use parcels, and called for streamlined processes and fast‑tracking of deeds. The debate combined constructive advocacy for the bill with criticism of existing land administration shortcomings. Senators discussed the Physical and Land Use Planning Act, emphasizing that subdivided private land must include public utilities and calling for clearer registration of community lands. They urged the Intergovernmental Relations Technical Committee to expedite asset transfers to counties to resolve ownership ambiguities, and highlighted persistent land‑registry inefficiencies and disputes in Embu County that hinder development.

The House debated a request by Hon. Kawanjiku to investigate alleged illegal tax exemptions granted to Blue Nile Rolling Mills under a Special Operating Framework, with the Speaker granting the Committee two weeks to report. The session also featured Hon. Passaris’s statement commemorating Pan‑African Women’s Day 2024, highlighting the “White Scarf Initiative” and the theme of gender, environment and justice. The proceedings combined criticism of fiscal policy with a celebratory call for gender‑focused peace initiatives. The National Assembly approved the Supplementary Appropriation (No. 2) Bill with amendments, highlighting adjustments to housing allocations and Appropriations‑in‑Aid to align spending with actual resources. Members praised the Budget and Appropriations Committee’s work but voiced strong criticism of a recent Court of Appeal ruling that mandates fresh public participation for legislative amendments, questioning judicial overreach and constitutional implications. Hon. Ndindi Nyoro praised MPs for safeguarding key budget items despite overall cuts, highlighting allocations for JSS teachers, milk farmers, coffee sector support and security salaries. He warned that all arms of government are facing significant revenue losses and called for further reductions, especially in parastatals and public sector spending. Subsequent remarks focused on reallocating funds from aggregation centres to post‑harvest loss mitigation, emphasizing the need for maize dryers to protect farmers and public health.

Senators debated the accuracy of reported repair costs and insurance coverage following the June 25 protest damage, with the Temporary Speaker directing Senator Cherarkey to substantiate the figures. The exchange expanded to broader county‑assembly matters such as salary reviews, delayed treasury disbursements, ethics oversight and ethnic composition, showing a blend of procedural clarification and wider governance concerns. Senator Khalwale criticised the EACC for political meddling and urged better funding for the OAG, warning that poor conduct by oversight bodies could incite youth unrest. Senator Omogeni praised Senator Kajwang’s chairmanship of the CPAC and highlighted unresolved financial irregularities in Nyamira County, urging the EACC to investigate the missing Kshs40 million. The debate combined sharp criticism of institutions with commendation of individual senators. Senators emphasized the ecological and community importance of protecting wetlands in Nyamira and Kisii, urging that they remain public, undeveloped spaces and calling for stronger public participation in environmental legislation. They also criticised the Kenya Prisons Service for acquiring land, including wetlands, without consultation, and urged its withdrawal and better stewardship by agencies such as the Kenya Wildlife Service. The debate combined supportive calls for conservation with pointed criticism of mismanagement.

Members debated an amendment to the CEO qualification clause, with some urging that a master’s degree not be mandatory and emphasizing managerial experience, while others highlighted the need for analytical skills. The House proceeded with several procedural amendments to clauses, including grammatical corrections and clarifications, and expressed support for measures that strengthen farmer cooperatives. Members debated the removal of Clause 31, arguing that multiple crop tribunals are redundant and wasteful and supporting its deletion in favour of a single, possibly co‑operative‑based tribunal. They also urged the inclusion of mandatory alternative dispute resolution mechanisms before tribunal escalation and raised concerns about county governments managing cotton collection centres. Further amendments addressed penalty levels and appeal rights in Clause 33. Members debated the need for clear qualification criteria for Council of Governors appointments in the sugar sector and contested the appropriate body to manage the levy for infrastructure repairs, favouring KURA over county control. The Committee rejected several Senate amendments, including one on levying imported sugar and another that would delete a clause guaranteeing growers’ representation, while agreeing on reporting provisions. The discussions highlighted tensions between the Senate and National Assembly over policy details affecting the sugar industry.

The session began with Sen. Cherarkey drawing attention to a faulty floodlight affecting transmission, followed by Sen. Mbugua requesting a statement from the Roads, Transportation and Housing Committee. The Senate then proceeded with several divisions, including an electronic vote on the Houses of Parliament (Bicameral Relations) Bill, which ultimately failed to secure the required majority. Procedural matters such as the division bell, electronic voting, and opportunities for senators to comment on issues like fake news were also highlighted. Senators debated a motion to grant the Committee on Delegated Legislation an extension of 21 days to finalize land and valuation regulations, with most expressing support for the additional time. Several members highlighted procedural delays, lack of ministerial engagement, and recent court setbacks on health statutes, urging better communication and proactive lobbying. The overall tone combined constructive endorsement of the extension with criticism of existing inefficiencies. Senators raised concerns that votes were being cast on behalf of absent members, questioning the integrity of the House and urging referral to the Powers and Privileges Committee. The Temporary Speaker responded to points of order, clarified the voting count and procedural directives, while some members argued the issue should not be escalated. The debate centered on procedural compliance, voting accuracy, and maintaining decorum.

Hon. Ndindi Nyoro highlighted the need to rationalise overlapping government agencies to curb recurrent expenditure while emphasizing continued investment in critical areas such as JSS and health interns, agriculture subsidies, and police salary reforms. He detailed specific budget allocations for fertilizer, coffee, sugar, dairy, and police reforms, urging the House to support these measures for broader economic development. Members highlighted the need to address massive tax expenditure losses and close VAT loopholes while expressing strong support for the Supplementary Appropriation Bill. They endorsed increased salaries for police and defence forces, the School Feeding Programme, and expanded teacher recruitment, and called for agricultural reforms through cooperatives and aggregation centres to boost smallholder productivity. The debate combined criticism of fiscal inefficiencies with constructive proposals for social and economic development. Members debated the need to boost agriculture—particularly mechanised sugarcane farming—to create jobs and reduce poverty, highlighting data gaps, varietal development and the importance of paying farmers for sucrose content. They also raised broader concerns about youth unemployment, adolescent health, PPP road projects and the restoration of the Women Enterprise Fund, calling for coordinated policy and funding. The tone was constructive but underscored significant implementation challenges.

Members debated an amendment to the General Administration budget, focusing on the proposed allocation of an oversight fund to the Senate. Several MPs criticised the fund as wasteful, calling for its removal and even suggesting the abolition of the Senate, while others defended the NG‑CDF and broader budgetary considerations. The Temporary Chairlady directed the discussion and sought a way forward from the Budget and Appropriations Committee. The National Assembly’s Committee of the Whole House debated the President’s reservations on the Finance Bill, moving to delete a large number of clauses from the Income Tax Act and the VAT Act. Members raised procedural concerns about quorum and expressed frustration that the deletions eliminated provisions intended to benefit small‑scale farmers, traders and micro‑enterprises, while also supporting the majority’s push to align with the President’s recommendations. Members urged the Speaker to convey to the President that the Finance Bill should be withdrawn, lamenting the loss of tax‑amnesty benefits for small‑scale farmers and businesses. They criticised the House’s poor communication with the public and debated the constitutional procedure when a bill is rejected by the President, including whether to return a blank or deleted document. The discussion also included a call for greater parliamentary transparency through public gallery visits.

Senators raised concerns about the delayed transmission of Senate proceedings and debated the appropriate use of formal Swahili in addressing the Speaker. The bulk of the discussion focused on mining legislation, particularly gypsum extraction in Tana River, urging that investors obtain proper licences, provide community training, and adhere to environmental and constitutional provisions. Procedural interruptions and light‑hearted remarks punctuated the debate, reflecting both constructive and contentious elements. Senators discussed proposed mining legislation, urging that it cover all minerals and require investors to submit detailed plans and environmental impact assessments that benefit local communities. They highlighted the lack of employment and training for residents in mining areas such as Tana River and called for mandatory local hiring and skill development. The debate also noted the need to attract investment while ensuring community rights and environmental safeguards. Sen. Oketch Gicheru advocated for the Local Content Bill, emphasizing the need for stronger devolution mechanisms, county involvement, and knowledge transfer in the mining, oil and gas sectors. He highlighted challenges such as limited economic diversification, unsafe artisanal mining practices, and the absence of business registration frameworks for local miners. A brief exchange with the Speaker introduced a personal tone but did not alter the substantive focus on policy gaps.

The Temporary Speaker deferred a pending bill to allow further contributions, after which Sen. Wamatinga moved the Local Content Bill (Senate Bill No. 50 of 2023) for a second reading, outlining its aim to boost Kenyan ownership and value‑addition in the oil, gas and petroleum sectors. He highlighted several shortcomings—problematic clause wording, lack of a clear funding model, unrealistic timelines, and inadequate representation of the mining portfolio—calling for amendments to ensure effective county involvement and benefit to local communities. Senators debated the Local Content Bill, emphasizing its potential to secure 30% of oil and gas revenues for local communities and to strengthen Kenyan technical capacity. They criticised past multinational practices for environmental damage, secrecy and inadequate community benefits, urging stricter impact assessments and corporate social responsibility. Overall, the speakers supported the bill while highlighting significant implementation challenges. Sen. Ogola highlighted the recurring fire outbreaks and the urgent need for improved fire‑service response, stressing better urban planning, access roads, counselling, compensation and insurance for victims. She urged broader representation on the fire‑service board—including the Council of Governors, Red Cross, medical services and media—and called for fire education in schools and consideration of private‑sector participation. Overall, she expressed strong support for the Bill while pointing out critical gaps.

The session began with procedural matters, including confirming quorum and laying papers such as the PSC annual report. Members raised concerns about teacher morale and the delayed implementation of the Mwache Dam project, requesting statements from relevant departmental committees. The Temporary Speaker directed the follow‑up actions and noted the urgency of the issues raised. Members of the National Assembly expressed strong support for the Public Service Internship Bill, noting its potential to address youth unemployment, provide insurance, and formalise internship remuneration. They called for practical amendments such as a six‑month deadline for regulations, clearer grounds for discontinuation, and a defined internship period to ensure graduates gain relevant experience and job placement. Overall, the debate was constructive and forward‑looking. The afternoon sitting presented the supplementary vote‑code budget estimates for FY 2024/25, detailing current, capital and total allocations for numerous state departments such as Foreign Affairs, Diaspora, Education, Treasury, Health, Roads, Transport, ICT, and Energy. The document consists mainly of numeric tables without substantive debate or commentary.

Members highlighted the need to integrate Generation Z into governance structures while condemning corruption, opulence and political meddling. The debate also focused on tight fiscal conditions, urging completion of ongoing projects, timely release of the fertilizer subsidy and support for agriculture, as well as calls for free secondary education and youth employment. Constructive proposals were mixed with frustration over budget cuts and perceived mismanagement. Hon. Jackson Kosgei urged urgent inclusion of disability‑access measures in the budget and appealed to Generation Z to channel their activism into voting rather than protests, emphasizing the country’s constitutional freedoms. Hon. Njuguna Kawanjiku outlined the First Supplementary Estimates, highlighting cuts to non‑essential programmes and targeted allocations for junior secondary education, coffee and dairy farmer support, and the school feeding scheme. Both speakers framed their points as constructive responses to current economic and social challenges. Members debated the Supplementary Budget Estimate, urging prudent allocation of resources, support for local manufacturers and tighter anti‑corruption measures, while criticizing wasteful spending such as the First and Second Lady offices. The discussion also highlighted generational tensions, with younger MPs urging the legislature to listen to youth perspectives and incorporate equity considerations. Overall the tone combined constructive proposals with sharp criticism of current fiscal practices.

Senator Wamatinga highlighted both progress and shortcomings in Kenya’s governance, praising advances in gender and youth representation while condemning the bloated county system, costly elections and entrenched tribal politics. He called for structural reforms such as reducing the number of counties, streamlining political institutions, and engaging Generation Z in climate‑action and development decisions. The remarks combined criticism of current resource constraints with optimism for a more cohesive, environmentally‑responsible future. Senators debated a motion condemning the unrest triggered by the Finance Bill, highlighting the high cost of living, corruption and mismanagement of public funds, and calling for the motion’s findings to be transmitted to the President and the Azimio coalition leader. Procedural exchanges centred on correcting the motion’s wording and ensuring proper documentation, while references were made to past health‑sector scandals involving the Global Fund and KEMSA. The tone combined criticism of governance with routine parliamentary procedure. Sen. (Prof.) Kamar emphasized the urgency of security, sustainability and food security across Commonwealth nations, linking these challenges to the values of the Commonwealth Charter such as human rights, equality and the rule of law. She called for stronger parliamentary oversight, legislative reforms and dialogue with civil society, and highlighted workshops at the 66th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference that addressed terrorism threats to statehood and the role of parliaments in mitigating them.

The House considered and moved to adopt the third report of the Decentralised Funds Accounts Committee on NG‑CDF audits for nine Bungoma constituencies, highlighting land title problems, misuse of emergency funds and partial project allocations. Members, notably Hon. Oundo, emphasized that MPs are not accounting officers, called for stricter accountability, capacity‑building and smoother handovers for fund account managers, and urged sensitivity to challenges in remote areas. The debate was largely procedural with constructive criticism and recommendations. Members debated the performance and oversight of the NG-CDF, with Hon. Makali Mulu urging stricter punitive action against fund managers for alleged mismanagement while still advocating for increased allocations. Hon. Julius Melly highlighted the fund's positive impact on local infrastructure, praised the Auditor-General's role, and called for stricter accountability and flexibility regarding title deeds. The motion to adopt the report and boost NG-CDF funding was broadly supported. Hon. Beatrice Elachi defended the NG-CDF, highlighting its successes in her constituency while urging Parliament to improve oversight, streamline project implementation, and consider using the fund to support free day secondary education. She criticized mismanagement and procedural lapses, called for greater unity among MPs and engagement with the public and judiciary, and pledged additional support for vulnerable Form IV students.

Senators discussed the Public Transport (Motorcycle Regulation) Bill, highlighting the vital role of boda boda riders in Kenya’s economy and politics while stressing the high incidence of accidents and criminal misuse. They called for specific licensing, training, safety gear, and the inclusion of tuk‑tuks and bicycles under the regulatory framework, as well as mechanisms such as SACCOs to improve enforcement and rider financing. Senators sought additional time to incorporate amendments into a bipartisan motion, urging the leadership to allow broader participation and address omitted issues such as DPP powers and cabinet secretaries. The Speaker facilitated an adjournment motion, setting a deadline for submissions and directing the debate to continue the following day, while also enforcing speaking limits. Procedural tensions emerged over speaking time and the need for consensus among majority and minority leaders. Senators Osotsi and Mariam Omar expressed support for the Boda Boda Regulation Bill, highlighting its potential to improve transport, health access and address industry challenges. They called for amendments on financing, police harassment during inspections, penalty amounts, board composition, registration procedures and dedicated road infrastructure, including use of motorcycles as ambulances. The debate was largely constructive but raised concerns about enforcement and affordability.

Senators highlighted chronic delays and funding gaps in completing county headquarters and supporting Community Health Promoters, blaming mismatched contributions from national and county governments and bureaucratic bottlenecks. They urged the Senate, IGRTC and Council of Governors to expedite direct funding to counties so devolution objectives can be realized, noting that many headquarters remain unfinished after more than a decade. The debate also referenced constitutional values, expressing disappointment at the lack of tangible progress. The Senate afternoon sitting focused on procedural matters, with senators seeking statements on disaster preparedness in Kisumu, payroll irregularities in Samburu, and health stipends in Bungoma. The majority leader outlined a heavy backlog of bills, motions and reports, urging whips to secure delegations to clear pending business. Additional discussions highlighted a motion on social risk management in infrastructure and various regional parliamentary reports. Senators debated the State of the Nation motion, urging inclusivity, unity and urging political parties to set aside partisan interests after recent youth unrest that saw attacks on Parliament and other institutions. The Speaker reminded members of procedural rules and cautioned against unfounded points of order, leading to the motion and several bills being deferred. The exchange highlighted both constructive calls for national cohesion and procedural tension.

The Speaker initiated the morning sitting by confirming quorum, ordering the Quorum Bell to be rung for ten minutes, and requesting senators to stand. The proceedings were purely procedural with no substantive debate recorded.

The Senate afternoon sitting on 17 July 2024 was unable to achieve a quorum after the 10‑minute call. Consequently, the session was adjourned in accordance with Standing Order No.40(2) and scheduled to reconvene the following day.

Sen. Veronica Maina urged the Senate to pass amendments to the Succession Act that would curb estate intermeddling, protect vulnerable children and widows/widowers, and ensure gender‑neutral inheritance rights. She highlighted the need for equal treatment of sons and daughters, spouses upon remarriage, and extended relatives up to the sixth degree, arguing that the reforms reflect progressive court rulings and will improve estate distribution. The debate combined criticism of current patriarchal provisions with strong support for the proposed changes. Sen. Manzo highlighted the complex and often unresolved issues surrounding succession, estate inheritance and the interplay with community land and customary practices, citing recent cases and the loss of a key judge. He expressed support for the proposed legislation but urged detailed scrutiny and expert input to address varied scenarios such as cohabitation, widow remarriage and cross‑community claims. The overall tone was constructive yet cautious, emphasizing the need for case‑by‑case jurisprudence. Senator Wambua questioned several provisions of the proposed Marriage Property Bill, seeking clarity on the definition of a child, the treatment of step‑children, and the effect of remarriage on surviving spouses’ rights. He highlighted potential conflicts with existing wills and warned that the legislation might encourage marriage for wealth acquisition, urging thorough public participation. Overall, he called for careful refinement before the Bill is enacted.

Sen. Mungatana criticised the National Treasury for alleged mismanagement, wasteful spending and failure to deliver infrastructure despite large borrowings, urging the removal of senior officials and infusion of younger, private‑sector talent. He called for investigations into extravagant budget items such as cars and furniture and suggested oversight by the NCIC to ensure equitable representation and accountability. Senators condemned the National Treasury as a major source of Kenya’s fiscal problems, calling for a wholesale clean‑up of its leadership and processes, and linking its failure to broader youth unrest. The debate also shifted to education, with members highlighting the gap between the promise of free basic education and the reality of fees, and urging reforms to ensure equitable access and address youth unemployment. Overall, the session combined sharp criticism of financial management with calls for systemic reforms in both treasury and education sectors. Senators highlighted unemployment as a driver of street vending and praised vendors for contributing to livelihoods and national unity. They voiced strong support for the Street Vendors Bill, emphasizing the need for designated vending zones, systematic data collection, and coordinated planning of utilities and security. The speakers also stressed that vendor engagement and public participation are essential to ensure fair rights and successful implementation.

The Cabinet Secretary for Roads and Transport outlined a massive pending road bill of about Ksh165 billion, citing insufficient budget allocations and delayed disbursements that have forced contractors to withdraw from sites. He criticised past practices of launching new projects without completing existing ones and called for a one‑off payment or drastic budgeting changes to revive stalled works, while noting limited progress on a few specific road upgrades. The Senate discussed the pending case of Stephen Bertrand Munyakho, whose execution was deferred and whose family is seeking Kshs150 million in compensation, noting that there is no budget provision for such payment. Senators also raised concerns about Kenyan women working in Saudi Arabia facing passport confiscation, poor working conditions and unregistered recruitment agencies, while the Prime Cabinet Secretary highlighted the removal of 700 rogue agencies and the provision of emergency travel documents. The chamber was urged to negotiate stronger bilateral labour agreements to improve wages and protections for Kenyan workers abroad. Senators highlighted serious concerns about unregistered recruitment agencies sending Kenyan migrants abroad, resulting in deaths and limited embassy assistance, and asked for county‑level data and details on the Migrant Welfare Fund. The Prime Cabinet Secretary responded by outlining the role of the National Employment Authority in registering agencies, ongoing efforts to tighten regulations, and cited digital‑literacy initiatives linked to the Labour Migration Management Bill.

Sen. Chimera condemned the proposed salary increases and highlighted the role of NG‑CDF in his education, while urging the Senate to address youth unemployment and create fair business opportunities for Gen‑Z Kenyans. Sen. Wakili Sigei reflected on the unprecedented attack on Parliament, called for accountability across all levels of government, praised recent bipartisan legislation such as the IEBC Bill, and urged comprehensive governance reforms to tackle corruption, debt and service delivery. Senators criticised the draft health‑insurance regulations for breaching constitutional requirements on public participation and for lacking clarity on benefits, data protection and inter‑governmental responsibilities. They called for the rules to be withdrawn and re‑drafted, urging greater ministerial and committee engagement before any vote. The motion was deferred to a later sitting pending further scrutiny. Senator Faki highlighted the UNESCO‑backed World Kiswahili Day and urged the Senate to accelerate the use of Kiswahili in parliamentary business, including translating statutes and establishing a dedicated language institute. While celebrating recent successes such as a widely supported motion and cultural events, he noted that many initiatives remain unrealised, reflecting both enthusiasm and frustration. Other senators raised procedural matters, including a request for a statement on delayed internship stipends in Marsabit.

Sen. Abass condemned the current political and economic climate, citing rising crime, failed oversight, and pervasive corruption, while warning that recent policies risk further upheaval. He called for systemic reforms including land redistribution, tax policy review, improved employment creation, curriculum overhaul, and affordable healthcare. The speech combined sharp criticism with proposals for structural change. Senators highlighted the high unemployment among Kenyan youth and called for greater inclusion of young people in public participation and policy formulation. They condemned corruption at both county and national levels and urged the creation of a business-friendly environment to spur job creation. The debate also touched on gender disparities in sanitation facilities and the need for equitable access to health resources. Senators raised a series of urgent concerns, from the rising mental‑health crisis among Kenyan men and the need for targeted interventions, to land‑ownership disputes on the coast, refugee‑linked loan conditions, and security incidents involving mining conflicts and cross‑border attacks. The Speaker highlighted broader public discontent over the Finance Bill, high cost of living, corruption and wasteful public spending, underscoring a climate of criticism and demand for accountability.

Senator Onyonka delivered a scathing critique of Kenya’s governance, denouncing widespread corruption, elite extravagance and the mismanagement of state resources such as hospitals, Kenya Airways and county development funds. He urged the Senate to hold officials accountable, reduce excessive salaries and lifestyles, and prioritize basic services for citizens. Sen. Osotsi criticised the erosion of parliamentary norms, the President's over‑politicisation and unfulfilled promises, and the exclusion of the Senate from the budget process, while urging concrete reforms such as signing the IEBC Bill, reducing the cabinet, auditing public debt and fully implementing Chapter 6 on leadership and integrity. He called for respect of constitutional procedures and better public participation, offering constructive suggestions amid the criticism. Senator Miraj decried youth unrest stemming from unemployment and unfulfilled promises, criticizing the government's failure to pass the Finance Bill and to open Moi International Airport for all flights. He highlighted corruption and mismanagement of funds in Mombasa projects, the lack of implementation of affordable housing and IGTRC reports, and called for greater accountability and action from the executive and parliament.

Senators voiced deep frustration over the recent protests triggered by the Finance Bill, condemning police and military actions that resulted in deaths and injuries. They linked the unrest to widespread corruption and wealth disparities, calling for accountability, reform of fiscal policies, and dialogue with the youth. The debate combined sharp criticism with proposals for new legislative and security measures. Senators decried widespread corruption and nepotism in county administrations, accusing governors of siphoning taxpayer money and calling for investigations, special committees and a presidential memorandum to halt the abuse. They also mourned the recent deaths of young protesters, demanding accountability, reforms in security and public‑sector hiring, and urging the government to address the grievances of the Gen Z generation. The debate combined sharp criticism with proposals for concrete remedial actions. Sen. Wambua used the session to condemn the lower house’s inaction and called on the Senate to fast‑track the Finance Bill 2024 while urging austerity measures, including a reduction of the Cabinet from 21 to the constitutional minimum of 14 secretaries. He criticised the police leadership, the anti‑corruption commission and the judiciary for pervasive corruption, and highlighted questionable budget allocations such as the NG‑CDF additions, demanding a national conversation on these issues.

The Senate session on 2 July 2024 could not achieve a quorum, prompting the Speaker to order the Quorum Bell to be rung. Consequently, the sitting was adjourned until the following morning at 9:30 a.m.

Sen. Ali Roba began by expressing condolences for recent deaths and praising security officers who restrained violence, then shifted to commend the activism of Kenya’s Gen Z and their opposition to the Finance Bill. He criticised the bill’s impact on youth, called for a more rational, deficit‑reducing budget, and highlighted systemic unresponsiveness of cabinet secretaries and the need for better government accountability. The speech combined commendation with strong criticism of current fiscal and administrative practices. Senators expressed deep concern over recent police killings, corruption and economic hardship, highlighting the suffering of families, sick patients and unemployed youth. They criticised the import of poisonous sugar and oil, budget allocations, and legislation such as the Housing Bill, urging the President and cabinet to listen to Gen Z protests and implement reforms. The debate combined condemnation with calls for decisive leadership and change. Sen. Kajwang warned against deploying the military on Nairobi streets, citing regional instability, and criticised the performance of oversight bodies while highlighting the Senate’s accountability record. He urged a shift to digital government, better budget allocation to constitutional commissions and reforms to improve efficiency and transparency. The speech blended criticism with praise for the Senate’s actions and a call for national redemption.

The Senate session on 27 June 2024 could not achieve a quorum, prompting the Speaker to ring the quorum bell twice. Consequently, the meeting was adjourned until 2 July 2024 at 2:30 p.m.

The document contains only a heading indicating the date and session type, with no substantive debate content to analyze.

Senators condemned the use of live ammunition against demonstrators and the breach of Parliament’s security, demanding accountability for the police actions. They also debated the Senate’s authority to review the Finance Bill, especially provisions affecting county governments. The speakers called for unity, restraint and a stronger stance against impunity and corruption. Senator Crystal Asige denounced the government's handling of recent youth protests, accusing police of brutality and the Finance Bill of being opaque and harmful to citizens. She, alongside the Speaker, demanded a presidential apology, urgent parliamentary inquiries into the unrest, and urged the Senate to postpone recess until these issues are addressed. The debate centered on youth grievances, the contentious Finance Bill, and calls for greater government accountability. A senator delivered an impassioned appeal urging President Ruto and opposition leader Raila Odinga to provide decisive leadership, warning that Kenya could face unrest or revolution if grievances are ignored. The remainder of the sitting focused on procedural matters, including roll‑call voting, door security, and compliance with standing orders for virtual participation. The debate combined strong criticism of the executive with routine Senate business.

Members raised a request for an update on abducted Kenyans, which the Speaker postponed pending the vote. The debate then centred on voting procedures, with several members demanding microphone access and the Speaker insisting on manual roll‑call voting, culminating in a division of 195 Ayes to 106 Noes. The House subsequently moved to consider the Finance Bill for a third reading. The National Assembly resumed the Committee of the Whole House to consider several amendments to the Finance Bill, including detailed tariff classifications for bio‑plastic and paper products and a proposal to exclude VAT on insurance brokerage services, which received support from members. Additional motions addressed a tariff rate change for billets and the Committee's report on the Bill's consideration. Members debated the Finance Bill amendments, with the opposition announcing a collective withdrawal of their proposals and rejecting the Bill in totality. The Speaker clarified procedural rules on amendment withdrawals, leading to a tense exchange and some procedural humor. The discussion highlighted intra‑party coordination and the challenges of amending the Bill.

The Speaker clarified that the advisory from the Cabinet Secretary is a routine reminder of constitutional and statutory budgetary obligations, rejecting the Minority Leader’s claim that it was a directive. Members then debated the Finance Bill, criticizing proposed tax increases such as the coal excise duty, import declaration fee, eco‑levy on plastics, and VAT on bread, arguing they could harm industry, increase costs for consumers, and exacerbate fiscal deficits. The exchange highlighted tensions between fiscal prudence, revenue needs, and concerns over the economic impact of higher taxes. The afternoon sitting focused on the Finance Bill 2024, with MPs split between opposition—citing IMF‑driven subsidy cuts and perceived oppression of Generation Z—and support, highlighting increased NG‑CDF allocations and electricity funding. The debate featured procedural interruptions, humor, and calls for greater public participation. Overall, the tone was contentious but balanced between criticism and endorsement. Members debated the Finance Bill (Bill No. 30 of 2024) amid heated exchanges over voting procedures and the content of tax clauses. The Speaker intervened repeatedly to restore order, and a division was held electronically, passing the second reading with 204 votes in favour and 115 against. The House was instructed to submit any amendments by the set deadline before the Committee of the Whole.

Hon. Ndindi Nyoro warned that failure to pass the Finance Bill would trigger large cuts across the budget, affecting State House, defence, NG‑CDF, electricity, livestock restocking, school feeding, cash transfers and the permanent employment of 46,000 JSS teachers. He urged the House to bring the Appropriations Bill forward to mitigate these impacts. Hon. Rashid Bedzimba opposed the proposed fuel tax increase, arguing it would raise the cost of living and called for respect of citizens’ grievances. Members debated the Finance Bill 2024, with some praising allocations for drought‑affected livestock owners, school teachers and local manufacturers, while others condemned the Bill for excessive taxation, IMF‑linked conditions, data‑privacy concerns and poor-quality locally‑made sanitary products. The discussion highlighted both support for specific provisions and strong opposition to perceived fiscal overreach and duplication of government functions. The Speaker opened the session by confirming quorum and urging decorum, then Hon. Opiyo Wandayi raised a point of order about police blockades preventing members from entering Parliament and questioned the legality of the police presence. Hon. Silvanus Osoro responded by defending the police’s independence and security role, prompting the Speaker to order a fact‑finding check before proceeding with the day’s business. The House then moved on to other items, including a public petition on the Elgeyo Border Settlement Scheme.