Sittings

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

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 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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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. 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.

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.

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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.

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.

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. Dorothy Muthoni praised the Finance Bill for extending tax relief, making cancer medicines VAT‑free and creating permanent teaching posts, describing it as a bottom‑up achievement. Hon. Millie Odhiambo countered, arguing the Bill lacks a solid policy basis, criticising taxes on sanitary products, the eco‑levy and environmental tax burdens on low‑income earners, and therefore withdrew her support. The debate highlighted contrasting views on fiscal reforms, health and education spending, and gender‑related tax issues. Members debated the Finance Bill, highlighting amendments that address fiscal deficit reduction, tax loopholes and state capture, and noting improvements in macro‑economic indicators such as the drop in the price of maize and a stronger shilling. The speaker urged MPs to act on principle rather than popularity, while procedural interjections and a light‑hearted point of order on sanitary towels added tension to the session. The session opened with Hon. Raphael Wanjala condemning the government's failure to industrialise Kenya and accusing it of reverting to authoritarian practices, especially regarding police actions against demonstrators. The debate then shifted to Hon. Duncan Mathenge's strong endorsement of the Finance Bill, highlighting its benefits for teachers, doctors, and coffee farmers, while procedural interjections addressed points of order and clarified the relationship between the national budget and the Finance Bill.

Hon. Kuria Kimani presented amendments to the VAT Act aimed at zero‑rating essential goods such as bread, sugarcane transport, locally assembled phones and sanitary products, while proposing exemptions for small farmers and micro‑enterprises from electronic invoicing requirements. He also advocated for an Eco‑Levy on manufacturers to fund e‑waste recycling and an Export and Investment Provision Levy to protect local manufacturers from cheap imports and boost the sector’s contribution to GDP. The overall tone was constructive, emphasizing support for Kenyan manufacturing and fiscal measures to safeguard the economy. Members debated recent budget allocations, questioning the Ksh500 million added to the NG‑CDF and extra funds for women representatives and constituencies, while urging transparency on how the money will be used. The discussion highlighted proposals to raise excise duties on fully assembled imported motorcycles and on imported table eggs to protect local manufacturers and farmers, alongside calls to expand the tax base without over‑burdening citizens. Procedural interruptions and points of order reflected underlying tensions between parties. Hon. Zamzam questioned a purported tax on cancer patients and was asked to cite the specific clause in the Finance Bill, leading to a series of points of order about the accuracy of his statements. The Speaker repeatedly warned members to observe decorum and reminded them of Standing Order 91, while Hon. John Kiarie and Hon. Millie Odhiambo‑Mabona contested the limits on debate and alleged misinformation. The exchange highlighted tension between substantive scrutiny of the Bill and procedural enforcement of parliamentary rules.

Members debated the Care and Protection of Child Parents Bill, raising concerns that it oversteps county authority in basic education and creates impractical requirements for schools handling pregnant students. While some praised the intent to support vulnerable child‑parents, many argued the bill duplicates existing laws and should be redrafted as a comprehensive children’s act. The discussion highlighted both moral reservations and procedural criticisms of the legislation. Members debated a Bill aimed at protecting teenage mothers by mandating school re‑admission and establishing licensed childcare centres. Hon. Beatrice Kemei and Hon. Mary Emaase emphasized the urgent need given high teenage pregnancy rates and supported the legislation, while Hon. T.J. Kajwang raised concerns that the Bill may effectively be a Money Bill, questioning its funding and constitutional classification. The discussion combined constructive advocacy for girl‑child rights with procedural criticism. Hon. Zamzam Mohammed urged increased funding and facilities to keep pregnant girls in school, citing scholarships and childcare support. Hon. James Nyikal and Hon. Peter Orero affirmed the Bill's principle of protecting girl‑children but flagged procedural, financial and cultural challenges, emphasizing its classification as a Money Bill. The debate combined strong support for the initiative with caution over implementation and resource allocation.

The Speaker introduced a ceremonial budget pronouncement by the Treasury, emphasizing that no decisions would be taken at this stage. The debate highlighted the government's climate change response and detailed extensive allocations for agriculture, livestock, the blue economy, land registration, MSME financing, and housing to drive economic growth and resilience. Overall, the tone was constructive and forward‑looking. The speaker presented a comprehensive budget proposal allocating substantial funds to health, ICT, infrastructure, energy, and education sectors, emphasizing the government's commitment to universal health coverage, the digital superhighway, and the Bottom‑up Economic Transformation Agenda. Specific allocations were detailed for disease control, hospital upgrades, digital projects like Konza Technopolis, road and rail expansion, renewable energy, and free primary and secondary education. The overall tone is constructive, highlighting investment priorities for socio‑economic development. The speaker outlined extensive budget allocations for sports, arts, tourism, environmental conservation, water infrastructure, anti‑corruption agencies and county governments, emphasizing equitable share and enhanced oversight. They also presented a suite of tax reforms aimed at broadening the tax base, lowering rates for certain investors, amending the digital services tax, and introducing a motor‑vehicle levy to support fiscal sustainability. The overall tone is constructive, focusing on policy proposals to stimulate economic activity and improve governance.

Members welcomed visiting students and used the occasion to discuss the Public Service Internship Bill, emphasizing its potential to link education with employment and uphold constitutional values. Hon. Beatrice Elachi highlighted challenges such as retiring senior officers, inadequate mentorship, and poor internship practices, urging a structured, ethical approach. The debate combined supportive remarks with criticism of current public‑service and teaching internship shortcomings. Members debated the Interns Bill, emphasizing the need for a clear definition of an intern and warning against using interns as full‑time staff without proper training or supervision. Hon. Owen Baya highlighted the risk of exploitation, while Hon. Tom Odege urged mandatory public‑service internships and broader training opportunities for graduates. The Temporary Speaker’s brief comment on maternity leave reflected a mix of concern and support for the proposed protections. Hon. Ferdinand Wanyonyi and Hon. Phylis Bartoo urged the passage of the Internship Bill, arguing that a legal framework is needed to protect interns, ensure minimum allowances, and provide clear supervision and job descriptions. They highlighted recent protests by unpaid interns and called for private‑sector incentives and a structured transition from internship to permanent employment. The speakers expressed broad support for the Bill while pointing out current shortcomings in internship practices.

Hon. Kimani Ichung’wah defended the Deputy President’s use of military and police aircraft, emphasizing that protocols require written requests and that senior officials must bear the associated costs. He linked the discussion to broader austerity measures, urging officials to reduce travel delegations and highlighting maintenance and safety concerns. The member also pledged to seek clarification from the Defence Secretary on aircraft usage policies. Members highlighted the lack of transparency in public debt management, urging the Public Debt and Privatisation Committee to produce a comprehensive debt register and ensure equitable use of borrowed funds. They called for gradual tax increases and better accountability of Treasury expenditures, while procedural motions were deferred to a later date. Members voiced strong criticism over perceived inequitable sharing of national resources, accusing the government of favouritism and urging equitable distribution. The debate also targeted the Deputy President’s public display of towing a bag, questioning its security implications and propriety, while the Speaker cautioned against personal attacks. Procedural interjections highlighted tensions between criticism and parliamentary decorum.

Hon. Antoney Kibagendi asked for a statement from the Health Committee Chair on the shift from a two‑test to a three‑test HIV algorithm, and the Speaker granted a two‑week period for a response. Hon. David Gikaria then delivered a detailed reply focusing on historical oil‑exploration activities in northern Kenya, associated water contamination, de‑commissioning shortcomings, and recommended remediation measures. Members debated the Equalization Fund Appropriation Bill, with several MPs expressing strong support for locking funds to address long‑standing marginalisation of the original 14 counties. They also highlighted persistent problems of mismanagement, corruption and uneven distribution that have limited the fund's impact, urging timely release of arrears and stricter oversight. The discussion called for focused investment in infrastructure, water, electricity and health services to bring disadvantaged regions up to parity. Members criticised the National Treasury for delayed and opaque disbursement of the Equalisation Fund, describing it as ‘rogue’ and demanding the Principal Secretary appear before the House. They highlighted the marginalisation of many counties, citing lack of electricity, roads, schools and flood mitigation, and called for a thorough audit and transparent allocation of funds. The debate combined strong criticism with constructive calls for accountability and equitable resource distribution.

Senators criticised the disproportionate allocation of funds to county salaries over development, urging a minimum Kshs6 billion per county for meaningful projects and a unified system to curb revenue leakages. They called for an intergovernmental mechanism to enable Senate oversight of national ministries and parastatals handling county functions, and highlighted specific infrastructure and health needs in their constituencies. The debate combined frustration over current inequities with constructive proposals for improved devolution governance. The Senate reviewed the revised recurrent expenditure ceilings for county governments for FY 2024/25 and moved through the Committee of the Whole on the County Allocation of Revenue Bill and the County Governments Additional Allocations Bill. Members tabled several amendment motions to clarify that all conditional and unconditional additional allocations are captured in county bills, and procedural motions were made to progress the legislation. Senators moved a series of amendments to the County Allocation of Revenue Bill and the County Governments Additional Allocations Bill, proposing deletions and substitutions of schedules and clauses. Detailed tables of county recurrent expenditure ceilings for FY 2024/25 were presented to justify the adjustments. The session proceeded with procedural motions and a division at the end of each amendment.

The debate focused on the Statute Law (Miscellaneous Amendments) Bill, with Hon. George Murugara outlining a range of amendments—from royalties and scrap metal regulation to public‑private partnerships and welfare provisions for parliamentarians and judges—seeking broad support. Hon. Farah Maalim reinforced the need for stricter controls on scrap metal theft, industrialisation, and equitable development for historically marginalised northern regions, urging the House to pass the bill. Members expressed support for the Miscellaneous Amendment Bill while highlighting shortcomings in its provisions on scrap metal licensing, labour export mechanisms, and power infrastructure coordination between KP and REREC. They called for clearer regulations, better enforcement, and improved inter‑agency collaboration, especially concerning fisheries governance. Members debated the Statute Law (Miscellaneous Amendments) Bill, praising provisions such as allowing men to adopt children while urging safeguards, and calling for integration of Kenya Power and REREC to improve rural electricity access. They also highlighted the need for greater youth employment through the National Employment Authority and voiced strong opposition to the proposed winding up of NUPEA and its merger with the Ministry of Energy, warning it could undermine nuclear energy programmes.

Members debated a motion to extend the afternoon sitting so the Committee of Supply can complete the budget approval before the Cabinet Secretary's statement. While the majority supported the extension as essential for thorough budget scrutiny, some members criticised the recurrent expenditure for lacking developmental impact and called for greater accountability and service‑delivery monitoring. The House proceeded with votes on several programme and vote items, including a large allocation for the State House. Members largely supported the budget allocations to the Inter‑governmental Relations Department, ASALs, Regional Development Authorities, defence and space programmes, emphasizing the need for stronger devolution and resource exploitation. However, concerns were raised about the department's low visibility, inadequate funding for the space programme, outdated defence equipment, and recruitment fairness. The debate also included a call for foreign affairs support to back Raila Odinga’s AU chairmanship bid. Members called on the IEBC to begin delimitation promptly once the relevant bill passes, and debated the allocation of funds to the Public Service Commission and the Teachers Service Commission. The debate focused on ensuring adequate staffing, fair recruitment and promotion of teachers, addressing pension backlogs, and equitable hardship allowances. While there was broad support for the funding, speakers highlighted systemic unfairness and urgent staffing gaps.

Members debated the upcoming Supplementary Budget, highlighting chronic end‑of‑year procurement corruption and urging a centralized eCitizen accounting system. They called for more equitable allocation of funds, especially for flood‑affected areas and an equalisation fund for Nairobi, while criticizing inadequate financing for anti‑corruption agencies and the impact of devolution failures on citizens. Members debated the Mediated Division of Revenue Bill, urging stricter oversight of county spending and the Commission of Revenue Allocation while acknowledging the bill’s role in funding devolved functions. They highlighted shortcomings in service delivery—health, water, education—and called for equitable, constituency‑based allocation, yet also praised positive actions by some governors. The tone combined criticism with constructive support for reforms. The House considered a request for a statement on the processing of title deeds for squatters in Msabaha, with the Departmental Committee on Lands pledging a response within two weeks. Members moved and passed motions to exempt certain business from Standing Order 40 and to convene a morning sitting on 6 June to accelerate priority budget‑related work. The session also adopted the Budget and Appropriations Report and reviewed supplementary estimates.

Hon. Ndindi Nyoro commended the House for adopting the Budget and Appropriations Report and highlighted Kenya’s strong macro‑economic performance in 2023, including 5.6% GDP growth, inflation within the 5% target band and a 15% appreciation of the shilling. He linked these outcomes to fiscal and monetary tools such as interest‑rate adjustments, a fertiliser subsidy that boosted maize production, and a disciplined budget that reduced the deficit to Ksh606 billion while allocating significant resources to education and devolution. Members praised the 2024 budget for increased allocations to school feeding, livestock restocking, revenue collection, rural electrification and pending bills, while acknowledging its overall balance. Hon. Charles Nguna highlighted achievements in education, agriculture and infrastructure but warned about stalled road projects and significant cuts to independent commissions such as IPOA. The Temporary Speaker managed procedural interruptions and noted regional allocation details. Members discussed the supplementary and main budget, highlighting allocations for health, police, agriculture, roads and the blue economy, while expressing concerns over high cost of living, low revenue absorption and wasteful spending. Hon. Mary Emaase emphasized the need for better alignment of planning and budgeting, stronger oversight and prioritising projects that deliver value for money. The debate reflected both appreciation for committee work and criticism of fiscal management.

Members debated an amendment to Clause 29 of a health products bill that would delete the existing five‑year validity limit for registrations. While some argued that technology should operate indefinitely, others warned that periodic review (suggesting seven or ten years) is necessary to accommodate technological change and financial considerations. The discussion highlighted procedural challenges in amending a deletion and did not reach a final decision. The Deputy Speaker deferred a question concerning a corruption report, and the afternoon sitting centered on procedural motions to amend several clauses of a Bill. Hon. Robert Pukose moved multiple amendments while the Temporary Chairlady managed the winnowing process, and Hon. Irene Mayaka raised a point of order about missing email authorisation for amendments, highlighting communication gaps with the Table Office. Members debated amendments to Clause 35 of the Bill, focusing on inserting the word “registered” before “pharmacist” to harmonise terminology, and adding a provision requiring patient or purchaser consent for drug substitution. The Temporary Chairlady facilitated the procedural steps, while Hon. Mayaka and Hon. Pukose clarified the wording and its implications. The discussion concluded with general agreement that patient consent is appropriate.