Sittings

Members vehemently condemned former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, accusing him of incitement, ethnic balkanisation and obstructing legal processes, and called on the police and the government to act without fear or favour. The debate also addressed procedural matters, noting a lack of quorum before it was restored, and referenced the role of the NCIC in handling related complaints. A motion of adjournment was supported amid the heated exchanges. Members recounted the human toll of the 2007 post‑election violence, highlighting atrocities against women and children and the lingering trauma among displaced communities. They urged political leaders to refrain from incendiary language, call for accountability, and emphasize the role of the National Cohesion and Integration Commission in fostering peace. The debate combined somber reflection with constructive appeals for responsible discourse and victim compensation. The session was dominated by procedural delays, with several committee chairs and members absent, leading to multiple statements being postponed. Members raised concerns about illegal leasing of sugar mills and the formation of cartels, urging the Agriculture and Livestock Committee to address the issue. The House also discussed scheduling a Cabinet Secretary appearance and public consultations on the Finance Bill.

Senators criticised the National Treasury for repeatedly missing the Disbursement Schedule, causing cash shortfalls, delayed salaries and business failures in counties. They supported a motion to approve a new schedule, urged amendments to the PFM Act and suggested a devolution bond to ensure timely funding. The debate highlighted the need for stronger fiscal mechanisms to improve county service delivery. Senators debated the County Additional Allocation cash‑disbursement schedule, expressing frustration that the National Treasury repeatedly fails to honour previously approved schedules. They urged the Treasury to release the funds in a single tranche and called for legislative amendments to make the schedule binding and to clarify the Treasury’s role under the Public Finance Management Act. Senators raised concerns over the allocation of mining royalties and court fines, arguing that counties like Narok, Nandi and Kakamega are receiving nothing while Nairobi benefits disproportionately. The debate also touched on funding for UHC workers and procedural frustrations, with several interjections about the conduct of the Temporary Speaker and the Standing Committee on Finance and Budget. The discussion was marked by criticism, repeated interruptions, and limited consensus.

The Senate addressed a procedural dispute over a committee’s mandated visit to Nyamira County Assembly, with the Speaker ordering the resolution be communicated and the visit carried out locally. The debate then turned to the Division of Revenue Bill, where Sen. Cheruiyot launched a forceful critique of county governments for overspending on salaries, lacking long‑term financial plans, and ineffective devolution projects such as CAIPs, urging stronger regulation and accountability. Sen. Cheruiyot advocated for the Cooperative Development Bill, highlighting its role in safeguarding members’ savings, establishing national and county‑level regulatory offices, and creating a tribunal system to resolve disputes. He stressed the need for devolved oversight to prevent fund misappropriation and called for differentiated rules for large and small cooperatives. While supportive of the legislation, he warned against potential abuse and urged careful implementation. Sen. Olekina expressed concerns that the proposed co‑operative bill lacks clear data, integration with existing programmes such as the Women Enterprise Fund, and risks stifling innovation. He called for better inter‑ministerial coordination, a devolved approach to governance, and the use of technology like AI to inform policy. While offering constructive suggestions, he criticised centralised control and the current legislative drafts.

The Cabinet Secretary for Gender, Culture, the Arts and Heritage explained the shift from a digital loan model to manual lending after high default rates, detailing disbursement figures and steps to restore credit histories for women groups. He also outlined new measures to broaden financial inclusion, including individual loan products, policy revisions, and stakeholder engagement. The response aimed to address past challenges while highlighting ongoing reforms. Senators debated the adequacy of budget allocations for devolution, questioning Treasury figures and urging a Kshs450 billion allocation to ensure meaningful county development. The discussion was marked by criticism of the National Assembly’s handling of audited accounts and the Equalization Fund, while also featuring a warm welcome to a delegation of Tenwek High School teachers and students. Sen. M. Kajwang strongly opposed the National Assembly’s lower allocation for counties, arguing that the Senate’s Kshs465 billion proposal aligns with constitutional requirements and the 10‑point MoU between ODM and UDA. He highlighted procedural flaws in using outdated revenue estimates, the need for adequate funding of health workers, and the transfer of road and service responsibilities to county governments, while also calling out governance lapses in some counties.

The Speaker announced the vacancy of Senator Gloria Orwoba’s seat following her expulsion from the UDA party and outlined the procedural steps taken under the Constitution and Elections Act. The Senate postponed the Finance and Budget Committee report motion to allow further review and scheduled a briefing breakfast, while also inviting members to the upcoming National Prayer Breakfast and welcoming a delegation of teachers and students from Kijabe Girls High School. Senators raised concerns about harassment of vulnerable groups, the treatment of street vendors and hawkers, and the mismanagement of the Kenya Rugby Union, linking these issues to broader corruption and weak law enforcement. They called for stronger regulation of informal trade, better protection for youth entrepreneurs, and more accountable use of public funds. The debate combined criticism of current practices with proposals for constructive reforms. Senators debated whether Standing Order No.29 should apply to a consultative meeting with the former Prime Minister on the Division Allocation Formula, with the Speaker clarifying that the gathering is not an official Senate sitting. The discussion shifted to a petition and a motion by Senator Nyutu calling for an automated, biometric Certificate of Good Conduct system, amid procedural interruptions and clarification requests.

Sen. (Dr.) Khalwale urged the government to fast‑track dual carriage highways, a standard gauge rail line and the LAPSSET corridor to boost trade with Uganda, South Sudan and Ethiopia, arguing these projects are vital for Kenya’s economic growth. He linked infrastructure upgrades to job creation, calling for more opportunities for Kenyan youth and improved health and education facilities in the western region, while criticizing perceived half‑hearted implementation of Vision 2030 initiatives. The speech combined constructive proposals with pointed criticism of current government commitment. Sen. Omogeni highlighted the unsafe conditions and low earnings of coffee farmers, urging the government to intervene, reject SRC‑set sitting allowances, and halt additional levies on the sector. He also called for fair value‑addition pricing and equitable distribution of benefits from the Coffee Cherry Fund, while expressing hope for continued support. The debate centered on protecting farmer incomes and ensuring policy decisions reflect local realities. Senators highlighted the heavy, unfunded financial burdens that national policies place on counties, arguing that the current Division of Revenue Bill under‑funds devolution and violates constitutional equity. They called for a higher allocation (around Kshs 465‑470 billion) and urged the restoration of the Equalisation Fund to address historic marginalisation and infrastructure deficits. The debate combined criticism of the national government with constructive demands for fiscal adjustments and stronger devolution safeguards.

The Senate afternoon sitting addressed procedural matters before hearing motions and statements on several pressing issues, including a report on the Division of Revenue Bill and the adoption of a public participation policy. Senators raised concerns over escalating land‑related killings in Kisii and Siaya, the contentious land acquisitions for the Lamu Port project, and the suspension of Machakos County Assembly sessions due to security threats. The tone combined procedural formality with urgent, critical commentary on security and governance challenges. Senators raised concerns about high abortion rates and reproductive health stigma, highlighted longstanding land succession disputes in Kisii and Nyamira counties, and criticised inadequate compensation for land acquired under the LAPSSET project. The session also featured procedural friction as the Speaker reminded members to stay within the Order Paper, reflecting both constructive debate and tension over off‑topic remarks. Senators highlighted urgent concerns over land‑related killings in Angata Barikoi, calling for a joint inquiry by the Lands and National Security committees, and criticised the lack of arrests. They also debated the shortage of quality contraceptives, rising abortion rates, post‑abortion care challenges, and doctor strikes, while condemning the indefinite suspension of the Machakos County Assembly and urging political leaders, especially women officials, to resolve their differences. The discussion combined criticism with constructive calls for legislative and executive action.

Senators debated the governance crisis in Nyamira County, highlighting the loss of Kshs19 billion, parallel county assemblies and a breakdown in oversight. The discussion was sharply critical of the County’s officials and the Committee on Devolution, while urging stronger Senate intervention and possible suspension of funding until accountability is restored. Senators discussed the progress report of the Standing Committee on Devolution and Intergovernmental Relations concerning the leadership and operational crisis in Nyamira County Assembly, moving and seconding a motion to adopt the report. Procedural matters were addressed, including limiting debate time to five minutes per senator and proposing an amendment to nullify decisions made by the disputed County Assembly leadership. The debate reflected a constructive oversight effort with limited conflict. Senators debated the legality of recent County Assembly sittings in Nyamira, highlighting that they contravene Section 7(b)(ii) of the County Governments Act and urging the Senate to adopt proposed amendments. Concerns were raised about the Controller of Budget’s role and possible collusion, as well as the risk of misappropriated funds reaching governors. The discussion called for a formal determination and swift resolution to prevent similar disputes in other counties.

The debate highlighted the need for stronger enforcement of disability accessibility standards, citing past gaps and proposing new guidelines and directives. The Cabinet Secretary outlined a suite of inclusive financial programmes—Hustler Fund, Uwezo Fund, KIE, and MSEA—targeting women, youth and persons with disabilities to expand business opportunities. Procedural remarks on quorum and timing also featured. Senators raised serious concerns about the Hustler Fund, questioning its transparency, impact assessment and the profile of borrowers, while also highlighting a new wave of youth gambling and the need for stricter oversight of treasury allocations. The Cabinet Secretary pledged to meet members outside normal sessions to explain the fund, outlined repayment mechanisms, and referenced related initiatives such as the NYOTA/KJET World Bank programme and labour‑mobility facilitation. The debate combined criticism with constructive offers for greater accountability and outreach. Senators raised procedural points of order and sought to pause the sitting to receive a memorandum from health workers amid an ongoing Universal Health Care strike, while the Temporary Speaker emphasized time constraints and urged continuation of scheduled questions. The debate featured interruptions, requests for adjournment, and acknowledgment of a visiting school delegation.

Senators reported on the ICT Committee’s public participation process for the Bill, including stakeholder consultations and investigations into critical telecommunication infrastructure such as the Telkom Kenya sale. The Standing Committee on Land, Environment and Natural Resources detailed its meetings, bills under consideration, petitions, and county visits, while noting delays caused by an unresponsive ministry. Overall the debate was procedural and focused on committee progress, with some criticism of administrative bottlenecks. Senators called for rigorous vetting of IEBC commissioners, stressing competence and urging the Senate’s constitutional role in the appointment and budgeting of independent commissions. They also highlighted a worsening cholera outbreak, demanding urgent action and clearer communication from the Ministry of Health. Throughout, members emphasized the need for the Senate to assert its mandated oversight functions under Article 249. Senators highlighted inter‑county flood risks from the Sondu Miriu River dyke construction and questioned the utilisation of Ksh 1.3 billion allocated to expand the Dandora Wastewater Treatment Plant, while also welcoming a delegation of teachers and students from St. Hannah’s Girls School. The session included procedural orders and a report from the Justice, Legal Affairs and Human Rights Committee on its recent legislative and petition work.

Senator Cherarkey criticised the politicisation and mismanagement of the NGAAF and bursary funds, urging consolidation and free, compulsory education for all Kenyans. He also called for hardship allowances for teachers and civil servants in remote areas and advocated a special audit of bursary allocations, while warning against premature constitutional amendments. Senators debated a motion to make secondary education free by consolidating the various bursary streams from government, MPs, governors and private donors. While many argued that pooling funds would increase efficiency and reduce corruption, concerns were raised about centralising disbursements and the need for accurate cost calculations before budgeting. The discussion highlighted personal experiences and called for transparent reporting to enable policy implementation. Senators debated the fragmented and often corrupt administration of bursary funds, arguing that the current system involving NG‑CDF, MPs and other bodies leads to waste and opaque allocations. Several members called for a consolidated, audited approach under the Ministry of Education, citing the constitutional right to free education under Articles 43 and 53. The discussion combined criticism of existing practices with constructive proposals for reform.

Senators voiced strong concerns over the proposed reclassification of hardship areas, warning that removing hardship allowances could harm civil servants and residents without public participation. They also advocated for the establishment and funding of sports academies, urging greater allocation of NG‑CDF resources and mechanisms to capture revenue from foreign athletes training in Kenya. The debate combined criticism of executive decisions with constructive proposals for youth development and transparency. Senators debated the Creative Economy Support Bill, emphasizing the need to re‑classify the sector from Sports and Culture to Trade and Industry to unlock investment and better support youth talent. They also raised concerns about financing sports academies and procedural matters, leading to the deferral of the question to a later sitting. Overall, the tone was constructive but tempered by procedural delays and funding worries. The Senate afternoon sitting began with procedural formalities and a welcome to a delegation of parliamentary officers from Ghana, Gambia and several Kenyan counties. The chamber considered a health committee report on a petition alleging medical negligence leading to a death, sought statements on the Imperial Bank liquidation and the suspension of foreign medical licences, and received an update on the Energy Committee’s first‑quarter activities. The tone combined courteous acknowledgements with critical scrutiny of health services and financial sector failures.

Senators raised concerns about non‑operational technical colleges in Isiolo, inadequate equipment, and the long‑standing unemployment of teachers who graduated years ago. The Deputy Speaker outlined plans to complete and equip TVET institutions, reuse obsolete government assets, and consider five‑year teacher demand projections, while acknowledging the need for policies to prioritize older graduates. The exchange combined constructive proposals with evident frustration over implementation gaps. Senators questioned the Ministry on the mental‑health impact of the new CBC curriculum on primary head teachers, the need for teacher training, and the lack of remuneration for teachers with arts and sports expertise, while also raising a specific infrastructure issue about a school’s transport. The Deputy Speaker responded by detailing re‑tooling programmes for 220,000 teachers, the mainstreaming of arts and sports with associated facilities and job‑evaluation incentives, and the provision of counselling services through the TSC, before addressing the school‑bus concern. Senators pressed the Cabinet Secretary for education to provide county‑by‑county data on TVET enrolments and teacher employment to ensure equitable distribution of opportunities. The Deputy Speaker noted the data were not immediately available but pledged to obtain them within two weeks, citing the forthcoming KEMIS system and ongoing job‑evaluation processes under the competency‑based curriculum. Additional points included Madrasa integration and upcoming collective bargaining negotiations.

The Deputy Speaker criticised Senator Khalwale for retreating on a stance against the Interior Cabinet Secretary and accused him of misleading the House, leading to a heated exchange of points of order. The debate then shifted to concerns over micro‑finance institutions and the Central Bank’s oversight, with allegations of predatory lending, asset seizure and collusion with police. The discussion highlighted both personal political friction and substantive worries about financial regulation. Senators commemorated Pope Francis, emphasizing his humility, compassion for the poor and progressive stance on migrants, gender and sexual minorities, and climate action. They urged Kenya to emulate these values, criticizing right‑wing politics, ethnic division and corruption while calling for greater unity and inclusivity. The debate blended praise for the late pontiff with a call for domestic reform. Senator Cherarkey highlighted the proliferation of commercial bank accounts in several counties, questioning compliance with the Public Finance Management Act and the role of the Central Bank of Kenya. He condemned abusive practices by micro‑finance entities that seize assets from borrowers, while also noting recent macro‑economic improvements such as stabilised inflation and a stronger shilling, and urged the regulator to facilitate fair loan conditions for SMEs.

The sitting featured acknowledgment of the recently passed Bill No. 50, honoring the late Hon. Joyce Laboso, followed by a request for a statement on the murder of a young engineering student and rising insecurity in Subukia. Members also raised concerns about the lack of teacher data in TSC sub‑county offices, urging better record‑keeping for informed decisions. Procedural exchanges and brief interjections added a constructive yet tense atmosphere. Members debated the tariff and licensing of KUDURA Power East Africa Ltd., with Hon. Oundo accusing the company of monopoly pricing and exploitation, while Hon. Gikaria defended the licensing under the Energy Act and pledged a review through EPRA. The Temporary Speaker pressed for a comprehensive response and raised concerns about possible conflicts of interest. The exchange combined criticism with procedural commitments to examine power tariffs. Members highlighted the growing brain‑drain of Kenyan youth and urged the Committee to obtain data and regulate overseas recruitment agencies to prevent exploitation. They called for a clear legal framework to protect Kenyan workers abroad and cited critical staffing shortages in health facilities, while also raising concerns about land disputes and demanding a prompt parliamentary response.

The debate highlighted the risks Kenyan migrants face in the Middle East, including trafficking and the need for robust DNA verification and pre‑departure guidance. The government outlined measures such as diplomatic engagement, diaspora investment initiatives, digital service expansion, and dual‑citizenship facilitation to protect citizens and harness diaspora contributions. Overall, the discussion combined criticism of existing challenges with proposals for constructive policy actions. Members repeatedly urged the Cabinet Secretary to release the remaining 22% and 10% of the Road Maintenance Fuel Fund so that rural roads damaged by recent rains can be repaired before the parliamentary recess. They criticised the mechanical handling of the court‑ordered garnishment and called for a dynamic, win‑win formula to allocate the funds to KeRRA and counties. The Speaker facilitated the exchanges but no concrete resolution was recorded. Members highlighted the long‑standing loss of investments by retired teachers and farmers, accusing the Ministry of Cooperatives of failing to appear before Parliament to answer questions. The Temporary Speaker and Hon. Naomi Waqo pledged to secure a response from the Departmental Committee within two weeks. The debate combined criticism of government inaction with a constructive call for accountability.

Hon. Kimani Ichung’wah condemned the chaos and high fatality rates in Kenya's transport sector, especially among bodaboda riders, and criticised lax enforcement by police. He called for comprehensive legislation and stronger oversight by the Committee on Transport and Infrastructure, invoking the legacy of former Minister John Michuki as a benchmark for effective regulation. The speaker urged a shift from populist politics to decisive leadership to restore order across all modes of transport. Members, particularly Hon. Catherine Omanyo and Hon. Atieno Bensuda, raised concerns over uncredited funds for sanitary products and the stagnation of NG‑CDF allocations, demanding accountability and greater support for women’s initiatives. The Speaker repeatedly called for order, criticizing the rowdy conduct of several women representatives while acknowledging their grievances. The debate highlighted tensions between frustration over perceived mismanagement and the push for constructive policy action. Members voiced concerns over the opaque leasing of five public sugar mills, demanding statements from the Agriculture and Livestock Committee and urging transparent, participatory processes. The Speaker directed the committees to provide responses after recess and emphasized timely follow‑up. The debate underscored the sugar sector’s importance to livelihoods and called for community peace initiatives.

Members debated the legality of certain regulations issued under UN Security Council resolutions, arguing they overstepped the authority of the enabling Acts and calling for their annulment. The discussion then shifted to the Learners with Disabilities Bill, with members highlighting the need for inclusive education, better support for special‑needs institutions, and legislative amendments to protect disabled learners. The debate combined criticism of regulatory overreach with constructive support for disability legislation. Members raised concerns over alleged diversion of eTA revenues to foreign accounts, questioning compliance with constitutional and public finance laws, and highlighted the high incidence of snake bites in Baringo County and the lack of compensation for victims. The Temporary Speaker facilitated procedural requests for statements from relevant departmental committees, with commitments to provide replies after recess. The session featured a petition on minority rights and a detailed appeal by Hon. Oundo to restore the National Land Commission’s role in resolving land disputes. Members raised procedural concerns, including a broken table for the minority whip and a request to discuss the Aviator gambling game, while also criticizing the absence of the Cabinet Secretary for Roads and Transport. The debates combined constructive proposals with expressions of frustration over administrative delays.

Hon. Karemba requested milk production figures for Runyenjes and Embu County and asked about steps to lower animal feed costs. Hon. Dr. John Mutunga Kanyuithia provided detailed production statistics and outlined a suite of government measures—including a national feed strategy, land commercialization, public‑private partnerships, duty waivers, alternative feed ingredients, capacity‑building programmes, and genetics initiatives—to reduce feed prices and boost milk output. The exchange was largely informational and constructive. Hon. Muchangi Karemba highlighted the untapped potential of Kenya's dairy sector and called for government action to reduce animal feed costs and support dairy farmers. Hon. (Dr) James Nyikal provided a detailed briefing on the escalating Kala‑azar outbreak in Wajir County, presenting case statistics and outlining the multi‑sectoral response by the Ministry of Health and partners, including treatment supplies, training, and vector control measures. Members debated Sessional Paper No.1 of 2025 on Kenyan foreign policy, with Hon. Odhiambo-Mabona highlighting the need to move from passing laws to effective implementation, and Hon. Oundo critiquing the lack of a guiding policy, inadequate funding, and politicised diplomatic appointments. The discussion called for professionalisation of the foreign service, balanced East‑West engagement, and greater public participation in policy formulation. While there was support for the paper, the tone was largely critical of existing shortcomings.

Members of Parliament expressed strong support for the proposed Social Protection Bill, arguing it would provide a legal framework and coordinated oversight for Kenya's myriad cash‑transfer and welfare programmes. They highlighted persistent challenges such as irregular disbursements, double‑dipping, lack of exit strategies and inadequate reach in remote areas, urging the Bill’s Board to address these issues with equity and sustainability. The debate combined constructive proposals with criticism of current system shortcomings. The sitting began with routine procedural business and the laying of audit and social protection papers. The core discussion focused on Hon. David Kiplagat’s request for a statement on the Kenya Prisons Constable recruitment venue, arguing that locating the centre in Turbo constituency unfairly disadvantages Soy residents, and urging a swift response and possible gazettement of an alternative site. Other members echoed the urgency, and the Deputy Speaker directed the matter to the relevant department for prompt action. Hon. Daniel Karitho raised the issue of Ethiopian Airlines’ ban on miraa cargo, warning of severe economic impacts for miraa‑dependent communities. Members debated which parliamentary committee—Transport and Infrastructure or Agriculture and Livestock—should address the matter, with some expressing frustration over the delay and jurisdictional confusion. The discussion highlighted the need for a coordinated regional response to protect trade and livelihoods.

Members of the National Assembly offered heartfelt condolences for the passing of Pope Francis, highlighting his humility, advocacy for the poor, and the Catholic Church’s contributions to education and social welfare in Kenya. Several speakers also called for respect and decorum, condemning mockery on social media, while brief procedural remarks addressed a school visit and a request to manage disruptions in the chamber. Members raised concerns over unfinished road works on the Wajir‑Moyale corridor, urging a statement from the Transport Committee, while Hon. Martha Wangari highlighted the prolonged delay of the Gambling Control Bill beyond the constitutional 30‑day mediation period. Hon. Charles Nguna also sought clarification on the unexecuted renewal of the Kenya Fisheries Service Director‑General’s contract, pointing to procedural lapses. The Speaker’s exchanges focused on timelines for committee responses after recess. Members of the National Assembly offered heartfelt condolences on the passing of Pope Francis, highlighting his humility, service to the poor, and commitment to climate justice and inter‑faith harmony. Several MPs recalled personal encounters with the Pope during his visit to Kenya and praised his role as a unifying global figure. The tributes reflected a solemn yet appreciative tone toward his legacy.

Senators debated the adequacy of the County Sports Association Fund and broader county equitable share allocations, urging higher percentages and faster disbursement. They criticised the National Assembly’s walk‑out and called for inter‑house dialogue to resolve funding disputes, while also proposing practical changes to sports funding criteria and application timelines. The discussion blended constructive policy suggestions with palpable frustration over parliamentary deadlock. Senators praised the potential of Kenyan sports and highlighted successful teams such as Kayole Starlets and Sango Sportif FC, while condemning the chronic under‑funding of sports in counties like Tana River. They urged the Senate to pass the sports bill that mandates at least 1% of county budgets be earmarked for sports development and academies. The debate combined strong support for the legislation with criticism of current neglect and misallocation of resources. The Speaker commended the Abbas-led committee's report but directed the Justice, Legal Affairs and Human Rights Committee to urgently investigate the legality of out-of‑area County Assembly sittings and the continued role of an impeached Speaker in Nyamira County. Senators then raised broader concerns, including unresolved road compensation claims, the need for forward‑looking legislation, and the alarming rise of illegal organ trade in Eldoret.

Hon. Gideon Kimaiyo moved for a statement from the Budget and Appropriations Committee on the amount spent by county governors on bursaries over the past five years, arguing that such spending breaches constitutional allocations of education functions. Hon. Silvanus Osoro supported the request, condemning governors for distributing small bursaries while using large convoys and alleging misuse of devolved funds, and called for a unified education fund. Earlier, a member defended Taita Taveta’s mineral resources, urging clarification from the government. Members highlighted severe deterioration of the Chepterit–Moi University Road and questioned the effectiveness of the Fuel Levy Fund, accusing the transport committee of providing inaccurate information and inadequate road maintenance. The Committee offered procedural explanations and promised a response after recess, but members expressed frustration and demanded clearer accountability. Members raised concerns about insufficient road funding, highlighting the impact of a court order that withheld the Ksh24.7 million per‑constituency allocation and the suspension of the Fuel Levy to counties. The House proceeded with procedural business, including the Leader of the Majority Party’s statement, scheduling of upcoming bills, and the approval of four diplomatic appointments after committee review. Light banter and laughter punctuated the session, reflecting a mix of frustration and routine parliamentary conduct.

Senator Kibwana moved a motion to note the Senate delegation’s report on the 2024 UN High‑Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development, highlighting the agenda, SDG reviews and voluntary national reviews. Senator Cherarkey praised the report but shifted to critique protectionist tariffs, US policies such as USAID suspension, and raised contentious social issues, reflecting both support for development goals and strong negative views on external influences. Senators debated Kenya’s progress on Sustainable Development Goals, praising the fertilizer subsidy and food‑security gains while highlighting persistent poverty and shortcomings in school‑feeding programmes and transparency. They called for stronger parliamentary oversight of initiatives such as NACONEK and the NG‑CDF, questioning their constitutionality and implementation. The discussion also touched on Africa’s connectivity challenges and the need for coordinated development. Senators highlighted persistent gaps in mobile and broadband coverage across remote and even urban pockets, linking poor connectivity to security incidents and everyday hardships. They criticised the opaque use of the Universal Service Fund and demanded detailed disclosures and accelerated rollout beyond the planning stage. The Speaker managed the questioning and urged the ICT Cabinet Secretary to respond with concrete data.

The speaker outlined recent improvements to Kenya's Social Health Insurance (SHA), highlighting instant coverage, free primary care, expanded emergency and chronic illness benefits, and a tiered referral system aimed at decongesting tertiary hospitals. He also addressed the licensing of health facilities, the ongoing audit of unlicensed primary centres, and a staff restructuring plan that includes anti‑corruption measures against fraudulent qualifications. While praising the reforms, he acknowledged challenges such as corruption and the need for continued oversight. The debate focused on Hon. Robert Basil's query about the compulsory registration of Kenyans with the State Health Agency (SHA) and the related court case (Petition No.E513). The Cabinet Secretary for Health, via Hon. Aden Duale, justified the registration to curb fraud, improve data accuracy, and support free primary healthcare, while the Speaker managed procedural interruptions and tensions over the handling of questions. Hon. Ruku GK thanked the House, reflected on his two‑year tenure and outlined legislative initiatives such as an anti‑corruption amendment, while also raising concerns about the continued sale of the Roundup herbicide. The Speaker subsequently approved his nomination as Principal Secretary and the chamber moved through procedural motions and brief exchanges among members.

The Committee reviewed and recommended the appointment of Michael Loikianu Lenasalon as Principal Secretary for the State Department for Devolution, highlighting his qualifications and clearance by various agencies. Members expressed support, noting the importance of equity and representation, while a few remarks added humor and minor criticism. The motion was seconded and proceeded without major opposition. Members debated the suitability of recent government nominees, with Hon. Odhiambo challenging Hon. Nyoro’s remarks and the Temporary Speaker intervening. Hon. Nyoro highlighted Kenya’s debt burden, revenue constraints and the need to attract investors, while several members praised the nomination of Hon. Caroline Karugu for a regional integration role. The session combined contentious exchanges with supportive endorsements. Members debated the nomination of Ms. Wendot as Cabinet Secretary for Gender, with one member controversially arguing that a man would better serve gender issues and demanding an apology for her remarks about women killed in Airbnb. Procedural points were raised about the nomination process, including the two‑thirds gender rule, the need for pre‑qualification on dual citizenship, and the constitutional separation of Parliament and the Executive. The exchange highlighted tensions over gender parity, qualifications, and parliamentary oversight.

Senators debated a Bill aimed at improving menstrual hygiene by establishing independent county committees to procure and distribute sanitary towels, addressing gaps in the existing Menstrual Hygiene Policy and regulations. The discussion highlighted the need for ring‑fenced budgets, local manufacturing to combat poverty, and criticism of current ministries for failing to implement the policy. While there was support for empowering beneficiaries, procedural concerns about the Bill’s classification were raised. Senator Orwoba used the afternoon sitting to champion a Bill that would shift procurement and distribution of sanitary towels to independent county committees, arguing this would empower beneficiaries and end period stigma. She highlighted the failure to implement Kenya’s Menstrual Hygiene Policy, cited poor sanitation in workplaces, and called for regulations and support for local manufacturers to address period poverty. The debate combined constructive proposals with criticism of existing ministries and oversight bodies. Senator Orwoba argued for amending the Sports Act to mandate counties to allocate at least one percent of their revenue to a dedicated County Sports Associations Fund, citing current under‑funding and diversion of sports money to other social programmes. She outlined the proposed fund’s administration, eligibility criteria, and the need for each county to have its own sports registrar to streamline registration and funding. The speech combined criticism of existing funding gaps with constructive proposals to strengthen grassroots sports development.

The sitting featured procedural debates, including the stepping down of Order No. 17 and concerns over the correct departmental committee for the Treaty Making and Ratification (Amendment) Bill. Hon. Kuria Kimani moved a special motion to approve several Principal Secretaries, highlighting their experience and the need for transparency, efficiency, and alignment with international best practices. Members also referenced constitutional provisions and the impact of tax policies on local manufacturing and employment. Members debated an amendment to the Estate Agents Registration Act to raise penalties for unregistered agents and curb money‑laundering activities. The discussion focused on whether fines should be expressed as a maximum or minimum amount, with concerns about Kenya’s FATF grey‑list status and the need for judicial discretion. The amendment was ultimately moved forward and agreed upon. Members debated Kenya’s participation in the Inter‑Parliamentary Union, urging a permanent delegation and praising first‑term MPs’ contributions, while the Speaker welcomed visiting students and teachers. Hon. Peter Shake highlighted the Nyariyo‑Yakididi community’s land rights under the Community Land Act. The session was largely constructive with procedural interjections.

Senators debated the challenges surrounding the Revenue Mobilisation and Allocation Fund (RMLF), urging county governments to allocate resources for road maintenance beyond the fund and to enforce licensing conditions that require developers to restore infrastructure. The discussion also highlighted tensions over water tariff regulation by the national Water Services Regulatory Board and praised Nairobi’s record high own‑source revenue, while reaffirming support for devolution. Procedural votes on several orders and a finance amendment bill were also recorded. Senators denounced the National Assembly for withholding Road Maintenance Levy Fund (RMLF) money, linking the lack of road repairs to political rivalry and devolution challenges. They urged the Senate to protect devolution, call out governors and assembly members for mismanagement, and prioritize infrastructure development across marginalized regions. The debate highlighted the need for transparent allocation of resources and stronger inter‑governmental cooperation. Sen. Cherarkey praised the Provision of Sanitary Towels Bill and called for gender‑equitable support for both girls and boys in schools, while urging colleagues to back the legislation. The debate shifted to a procedural clash when the temporary speaker reprimanded him for describing some senators as “flower girls,” leading to repeated requests for withdrawal and apology.

The afternoon sitting focused on requests for statements concerning a public land parcel in Githunguri and persistent power outages in Mandera County, with the Speaker directing committee responses and managing procedural delays. Members expressed confusion and dissatisfaction over unclear or contradictory information, particularly regarding the generator installation dates, while the session also featured routine procedural exchanges and occasional laughter. Members highlighted Kenya’s maternal and child mortality rates, noting they remain far above SDG targets and underscoring a severe nursing shortage in Trans Nzoia County. The House debated requests for statements from the Health Committee and the Justice and Legal Affairs Committee, the latter concerning the delayed prosecution of a KDF officer accused of murder. Procedural confusion over committee assignments was addressed, with timelines for responses set at two weeks. The House considered a motion to adopt the Report of the Decentralised Funds Accounts and discussed the Senate's extension of the IEBC selection panel tenure. Hon. Marianne Kitany moved a motion urging regulation of artificial intelligence to mitigate risks such as disinformation and privacy breaches. Hon. Nicholas Mwale requested a statement on police disruption of the 'Echoes of War' school play, raising concerns about freedom of expression and security agency conduct.

Sen. Chararkey criticised county leaders for tribal discrimination in fertilizer distribution, urged respect for a female deputy governor and highlighted child exploitation concerns, while Sen. Orwoba called for stronger oversight by the Committee on Devolution and Intergovernmental Relations and questioned the handling of county assembly disputes. Both speakers emphasized the need for transparent, accountable governance at county and national levels. Senators debated the alleged insubordination of Deputy Governor Philomena for seeking a US trip without the Governor's approval, criticizing the committee's report for omitting DCI findings and failing to address the root causes. The discussion also touched on broader governance issues, the role of oversight bodies, and concerns about using youth platforms for political messaging. Sen. Oketch highlighted a series of recent impeachment attempts and ongoing disputes between governors and deputy governors in Meru, Siaya and Trans‑Nzoia, linking them to gender bias, unclear constitutional roles and ethnic tensions. He criticised the ineffectiveness of oversight bodies such as the NCIC and called on the Senate to intervene, while also noting examples of successful governor‑deputy partnerships as models. The debate featured procedural interjections and requests for further information to substantiate claims of patriarchy and conflict.

Members raised concerns that allocated capitation funds for schools are not being released by the National Treasury, questioning transparency and urging prioritisation of education funding. They sought clarification on the amount allocated per student for maintenance, the regulation of junior secondary school fees, and requested policy directives to ensure consistent implementation. The discussion also touched on adult and continuing education initiatives and the need for effective monitoring. Several members, across party lines, voiced strong support for the appointment of Hon. Judith Pareno as Principal Secretary for the State Department for Justice, Human Rights and Constitutional Affairs, emphasizing her leadership, integrity and role‑model status for women and pastoral communities. The speakers highlighted her experience, incorruptibility and the symbolic importance of a female appointment, urging colleagues to approve the nomination. The Speaker reported a video‑recorded violent altercation between Hon. Umulkher Harun Mohamed and former Senator Hon. Iman Falhada Deko, outlining provisional sanctions and a request for written explanations. Hon. Umulkher then delivered a personal statement apologising for the incident, describing the events, condemning the recording, and reaffirming commitment to parliamentary dignity. The debate focused on upholding conduct standards while addressing the fallout from the clash.

Hon. Kuria Kimani criticised the 25% excise duty on transformers introduced by the Tax Laws (Amendment) Act 2024, arguing it raises electricity costs, hampers transformer availability and undermines the Last Mile Connectivity programme. He called for a review of the duty and for correcting tariff misclassifications, especially for glass, to better support local manufacturing and reduce reliance on imports. Hon. Silvanus Osoro urged amendments to several statutes—including the Mining Act, SACCO Societies Act, Accountants Act, Estate Agents Registration Act and the Public Benefits Act—to embed a definition of terrorism financing and grant regulators stronger anti‑money‑laundering, CFT and CPF powers, with penalties up to Ksh5 million for entities and Ksh1 million for individuals plus daily fines. He highlighted loopholes that could be exploited for terrorist funding, declared his personal stake in mining, and used light‑hearted remarks about a fellow MP’s reaction to accounting references. Members debated a motion to promote domestic fertilizer manufacturing, citing high import reliance, quality concerns, and vulnerability to global supply disruptions. They argued that local production would improve fertilizer quality, boost yields, and enhance food security, and the motion garnered broad support despite procedural interruptions and unresolved constituency queries.

The Senate debated procedural matters, deferring a question and invoking Standing Orders to address a senator’s late arrival and missed opportunity to speak. The discussion also covered a petition on county governments’ right to obtain legal representation, referencing constitutional provisions and the Joint Committee’s recommendations. Members expressed empathy for personal circumstances while emphasizing adherence to parliamentary rules. The Senate welcomed a delegation from the Taita‑Taveta County Assembly, emphasizing devolution’s role in county development and noting mentorship successes within political parties. Senators then moved through procedural business, laying papers and requesting statements on the termination of a postgraduate scholarship programme and the cancellation of judicial vacancies. The overall tone was courteous and constructive. Senators debated procedural points of order concerning a joint committee report on devolution and legal‑counsel matters, with the Temporary Speaker clarifying standing orders and the scope of references. The discussion highlighted concerns about the composition of the joint committee, the outsourcing of legal services, and the demotivation of in‑house counsel, while offering suggestions for broader stakeholder involvement.

Senators questioned the Cabinet Secretary on ownership, timelines and compensation for airstrip projects, particularly the Isiolo International Airport. The Minister outlined the phases, costs and funding needs, while acknowledging delays, unresolved compensation claims and the need for further budget allocation to make the airport fully operational. The exchange combined constructive detail with criticism over unanswered questions and implementation gaps. Senators discussed the strategic importance of the Isiolo International Airport within the LAPSSET development corridor, emphasizing Kenya's role as an anchor state for regional trade with Ethiopia, South Sudan, and Uganda. While highlighting the economic and logistical benefits, they also acknowledged challenges of airport sustainability and the need for coordinated funding with county governments. The debate called for collaborative leadership to ensure the corridor’s full development and operational viability. Senators discussed upgrades to several airports, including Mombasa International, Eldoret and Baringo, with the Cabinet Secretary outlining plans to improve runways, lounges and address infrastructure challenges. Questions were raised about airstrip obstructions, dumping, and the need for multi‑agency coordination, while procedural reminders about supplementary questions were made. The debate was largely constructive but featured some tension over question formats.

Members praised the Supreme Court for resolving a six‑year dispute over Senate amendments to the Houses of Parliament Bill, emphasizing that the judgment upheld the constitutionality of key Acts and clarified each chamber's mandate. At the same time, they criticised the Senate for overstepping, especially on tax‑related matters, and warned that prolonged legal battles waste public resources. The debate called for both Houses to respect constitutional limits and avoid future bicameral conflicts. The session began with ceremonial welcomes to visitors from Chogoria and Maara constituencies, after which Hon. Junet Mohamed led a forceful opposition to a motion, highlighting the Supreme Court’s recent ruling that clarifies the distinct functions of the National Assembly and Senate. He criticised the Senate’s amendments and repeated litigation as wasteful and urged that the Senate respect its constitutionally limited role, especially regarding money bills. Members of the National Assembly paid heartfelt tribute to the late Hon. Teyiaa, commending her resilience, leadership despite disability, and urging greater empowerment of women and persons with disabilities. The House observed a moment of silence before proceeding, after which a member requested a statement on the disappearance and death of Ms Lydia Tokeshi Bukhala.

The Senate afternoon sitting focused on procedural motions to agree with Committee of the Whole reports on the National Disaster Risk Management Bill and the Land Amendment Bill, and to adopt a joint committee report on a petition urging restriction of county governments hiring external law firms. Senators discussed concerns over the use of public funds, the capacity and remuneration of county attorneys, and noted limited participation from the Attorney‑General’s office. The debate was largely procedural but highlighted accountability issues. The Senate afternoon sitting focused on a series of amendment motions to a Bill, including inserting consultation clauses with county governments, establishing a Disaster Risk Management Fund, and granting tax exemptions for disaster‑related imports. Senators repeatedly moved to amend specific clauses (e.g., 27, 29, 41A, 41E) and procedural divisions were scheduled for the end of the sitting. The debate was largely procedural with little overt conflict. The afternoon Senate sitting was largely procedural, with the Temporary Speaker calling on committee chairs to report progress on several bills and to seek leave to reconvene the following day. Senators moved, seconded, and agreed to the committee reports on the Energy Amendment Bill, Persons with Disabilities amendments, County Public Finance Laws Amendment, County Assembly Services Amendment, and County Assembly Pensions Scheme Bill.

Hon. Nicholas Mwale linked prudent use of public resources to Kenya’s economic growth and presented a 1,116‑page audit report that identified numerous qualified audit opinions, especially on donor‑funded projects. He highlighted weaknesses such as poor accounting standards, delayed documentation, weak internal audit functions and stalled construction works, and put forward recommendations for capacity‑building, timely reporting, stronger internal audits and stricter project funding controls. Members debated the Public Accounts Committee’s report on the 2021/2022 financial year, highlighting serious deficiencies in procurement, accounting standards and donor‑fund utilisation. While praising the Committee’s work, they criticised delays, non‑compliance with IPSAS and the Public Procurement Act, and called for stronger enforcement, real‑time reporting and continuous professional development for government accountants. Hon. Majimbo Kalasinga raised concerns over the alleged theft of Ksh25 million from Nakoyonjo SACCO and called for a committee statement, highlighting lapses in financial safeguards. Hon. Amina Dika and Hon. Yakub Adow sought a statement on the disappearance of Mr Abdullahi Ahmed Mohamed, urging the Administration and Internal Affairs Committee to respond within two weeks. The Deputy Speaker facilitated the procedural flow, directing papers and managing the order of business.

Senators debated whether to extend the time allotted to the IEBC selection panel, with some arguing that delays risk an unprepared electoral body while others criticised the lack of a formal request and proper procedural channels. The discussion highlighted procedural issues such as the correct routing of letters to the Speaker versus the Clerk and emphasized the Senate’s role in overseeing the process. Ultimately, the motion received both support and opposition, reflecting divergent views on due process and election readiness. Senators debated a motion to grant a 14‑day extension to the IEBC selection panel, with members accusing the panel of incompetence, possible self‑interest and failure to meet constitutional timelines. The discussion devolved into partisan exchanges about the ODM‑UDA partnership and procedural interruptions, while some speakers expressed limited support for the motion despite criticism of the interview process. Senators debated the timeline and procedural handling of the IEBC selection panel, with Sen. Sifuna raising points of order over insufficient notice and alleged improper motives by the Majority Leader. Sen. Cheruiyot urged granting the panel an additional 14 days and highlighted the need for competent nominees ahead of upcoming by‑elections. The discussion also touched on the coordination role of the PSC and inter‑house communication issues.

Senators questioned the Cabinet Secretary on the absence of a concrete timeline for reviving the Kimuri Coffee Factory, demanding a clear schedule and accountability. The debate also raised concerns about cooperative governance, chronic under‑funding and the need for capacity‑building institutions, while noting the new coffee revitalisation strategy as a positive development. The Senate examined the situation of Kenyan refugees in the Dillo and Megado settlements of Ethiopia, presenting detailed population figures and noting that a majority expressed willingness to return voluntarily. Senator Chute pressed for specific timelines and accountability, while the Prime Cabinet Secretary highlighted ongoing negotiations, the need for voluntary repatriation, and legal constraints. The exchange reflected both informative briefing and criticism over the lack of concrete action plans. Senators used the session to highlight growing tensions around refugee integration, citing host‑community unrest, a recent Kakuma camp riot and a controversial transfer of refugees to Germany, and they pressed the Prime Cabinet Secretary for clearer timelines, infrastructure plans and UNHCR coordination. They also raised questions about the government’s role in settling long‑term refugees and asked about the status of bilateral labour agreements, while the Speaker reminded members of procedural rules.