Sittings

Senators used the afternoon sitting to congratulate Sen. Wafula on his election as Bungoma County Senator, stressing the importance of bipartisan cooperation and the Senate’s constitutional role in protecting county interests under Article 96. The Deputy Speaker and Speaker managed brief remarks, procedural reminders, and noted an upcoming impeachment motion, while various members expressed personal ties to Bungoma and urged unity across party lines. Senators debated the procedural handling of a special committee report that found allegations against a governor unsubstantiated, with the Speaker directing that the report not be debated. Members raised concerns about future impeachment, emphasizing that removal must be based on constitutional grounds and not personal attributes, while also referencing devolution and the Bill of Rights. The exchange reflected both procedural respect and critical viewpoints. Senators debated the adequacy of time limits in the impeachment process for county governors, urging amendments to the County Governments Act to extend the period for removal proceedings. The discussion also highlighted the work of the impeachment committee, raised procedural points of order, and featured interjections, applause and occasional humor. Overall the debate combined constructive proposals with moments of tension and disagreement.

Senator Cheruiyot outlined the Senate’s historical handling of governor impeachments and advocated for a select Committee of 11 members to examine the current motion, emphasizing procedural fairness and inclusivity. He cautioned against politicised campaigns and gender‑based accusations, urging members to focus on evidence and the Constitution. The debate centered on the appropriate route—Committee or Plenary—for impeachment proceedings. Senators debated the composition of a committee tasked with examining a governor's alleged misconduct, emphasizing the need for expertise, regional balance, and adherence to legal procedures. The discussion highlighted concerns over gender representation and the two-thirds gender rule, while also featuring procedural tensions and calls to avoid emotional bias. Senators urged greater commitment to a pending committee, encouraging members to attend as Friends of the Committee and emphasizing trust in the House's committee system. The Speaker outlined procedural rules for a county‑based electronic vote on the motion, seeking broad support to move the work forward. The debate was largely constructive, focusing on cooperation and legislative process.

Senators urged committee chairs to finalize pending bills before the Christmas recess and to have them ready for publication in January, emphasizing the importance of legislative work over motions. They supported deferring the County Vocational Education and Training Bill to allow thorough review, while raising concerns about inadequate consultation and the lack of ready committee reports before placing bills on the Order Paper. The debate combined constructive proposals with criticism of procedural lapses. The Senate convened a special sitting, formally welcomed a delegation from the Josef Korbel School of International Studies (University of Denver) and exchanged remarks on bilateral cooperation and potential sister‑city links between Denver and Nairobi. Senators also reported the National Assembly’s passage of the County Governments Additional Allocations (No. 2) Bill and its transmission to the President for assent. The proceedings were largely procedural and cordial. The Speaker reported that the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (Amendment) Bill, passed by the National Assembly, has been referred to the Senate for its first reading. Senator M. Kajwang’ moved to defer the bill so the Senate Standing Committee on Education and other stakeholders can review it, emphasizing procedural compliance and the desire to avoid future litigation. The Speaker then invited the Senate Majority Leader to take the floor.

The session focused on procedural matters, including the first reading of the Statute Law (Miscellaneous Amendments) Bill and the directive for public participation, as well as motions to approve nominees for Constituency Development Fund committees and the Commission on Revenue Allocation. The Speaker guided the debate with brief exchanges, and members moved and seconded the motions without significant contention. The House debated and vetted seven nominees for the Commission on Revenue Allocation (CRA), confirming they meet constitutional qualifications and thanking the Finance and National Planning Committee for its extensive work. Members moved, seconded, and approved the report amid procedural exchanges, light banter, and acknowledgments of the upcoming festive season. The discussion also highlighted the CRA’s mandate on equitable resource sharing between national and county governments. Members debated the Division of Revenue Bill, raising concerns about the credibility of CRA reports and political interference, while also contesting procedural matters such as the use of Standing Order 95 and the right of the mover to reply. The session included expressions of gratitude for committee work and concluded with an adjournment until February 2023.

The Select Committee moved to approve regulations establishing a public investment management information system aimed at enhancing transparency, accountability and coordination of government investments, with minimal additional cost. Members broadly supported the measures, citing benefits for project identification, monitoring and public‑private partnership oversight, while also critiquing current opacity in PPPs such as the Nairobi Expressway and the Hustler Fund. The debate underscored the need for stronger reporting and fiscal prudence in public investment projects. Members debated the Public Investment Management Regulations, highlighting chronic budgeting delays, lack of value for money and poor project oversight, especially in TVET and the Mlolongo‑Capital Centre expressway. While Hon. Liza Chelule and Hon. John Mutunga praised the proposed regulations and the Project Cycle Management approach for improving transparency and efficiency, they also called for greater public awareness and stricter monitoring. The Deputy Speaker opened a special sitting to address priority business, including the approval of nominees for the Commission on Revenue Allocation and constituency committees of the NG‑CDF. Members laid motions and reports for these appointments, and a tribute was delivered for the late former Kiambaa MP, Hon. Stanley Munga Githunguri. The session combined procedural proceedings with a solemn condolence.

Hon. Kimani Ichung’wah condemned the conduct of several IEBC commissioners during the August 2022 election, labeling their actions as criminal and a threat to Kenya’s democracy, while praising the Departmental Committee on Justice and Legal Affairs for its decorum and the peaceful behavior of voters. He urged the House to endorse the committee’s recommendation for a tribunal or for the commissioners to resign, emphasizing the need for due process and constitutional compliance. The session focused on resolving electronic voting glitches before proceeding to consider a motion to adopt the Committee on Delegated Legislation’s report on extending statutory instruments slated to expire in January 2023. The motion, moved and seconded, was put to the House and debated amid routine points of order and procedural clarifications. Members raised concerns over rising insecurity in Kitui County linked to camel herders, detailing recent murders, injuries and ongoing investigations. The discussion highlighted government‑led peace meetings, security deployments and compensation efforts, while urging the Cabinet Secretary to replicate these measures in other affected northern and eastern counties facing drought‑driven pastoralist movements.

The Deputy Speaker chaired a procedural sitting where committee chairs presented reports on delegated legislation, including adjustments to export levy and excise duties, and submitted vetting reports for principal secretary appointments across several ministries. Motions were moved to adopt the reports and approve the appointments, reflecting routine parliamentary business. The House debated the County Governments Additional Allocations (No.2) Bill, confirming its alignment with Article 114 and agreeing to the Committee's report without amendments. The Bill was moved through third reading and passed, and the House also approved nominations for National Government Constituency Development Fund committees. The proceedings were largely procedural and cooperative. The sitting was dominated by procedural motions where multiple departmental committees presented reports on the vetting of nominees for Principal Secretary positions and sought the House’s approval of these appointments. A brief interruption occurred when a member raised a lack of quorum, prompting the ringing of the quorum bell and a call for whips to gather members before proceedings resumed. The House then continued to consider and adopt the various reports and motions.

The Senate addressed the non‑appearance of Prof. Ojienda before a committee and debated the need for the committee to share its response on a sensitive county boundary issue involving Kisumu, Nandi and Kericho. Senators also corrected the reported number of applicants to the Hustlers Fund and raised procedural points about the order of statements. The discussion combined cooperative acknowledgements with disputes over fairness and accuracy. Senators debated the alleged mismanagement of the Equalisation Fund in ASAL counties, questioning the whereabouts of billions allocated for drought relief and irrigation and calling for greater accountability of governors. The discussion was marked by accusations of corruption, procedural interruptions, and references to constitutional provisions governing resource distribution. The Senate afternoon sitting addressed several motions and statements, including a commemoration of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, a request for a statement on compensation for Nairobi residents affected by illegal demolitions, and concerns over the management of athletics after the 2021 Tokyo Olympics. Senators called for committee inquiries into athlete support, particularly for sprinter Ferdinand Omanyala, and referenced ongoing constitutional amendment processes. The debate was largely procedural but highlighted accountability issues in sports and housing.

Senators highlighted a severe drought and emerging famine affecting northern counties such as Marsabit, Turkana and parts of the Rift Valley, condemning the government's slow and inadequate response and alleged corruption in relief distribution. They called for immediate policy actions including lowering input costs, reviving irrigation projects, shifting to cash transfers, and enhancing security to protect livestock and aid convoys. The debate combined stark criticism with constructive proposals to improve food security and climate resilience. Senators highlighted severe drought‑induced hunger and high post‑harvest losses, urging adoption of water‑harvesting and storage technologies and better irrigation infrastructure. They called for regional economic blocs and stronger political will, criticizing inadequate funding and perceived misallocation of resources. The debate combined criticism of current policies with constructive proposals for collaborative, technology‑driven solutions. Senators raised concerns over the LAPSSET corridor, highlighting delays, inadequate public participation, and unresolved land acquisition and compensation issues that marginalise counties like Samburu, Turkana and Baringo. They called for an ad hoc committee and the involvement of the National Land Commission to address compensation mechanisms and ensure equitable benefits. The debate combined criticism of current handling with constructive proposals for oversight and joint committee action.

Members debated an amendment to the County Governments Additional Allocation Bill, highlighting that the conditional grant for county headquarters had excluded Tharaka‑Nithi and urging equitable sharing among the five beneficiary counties. The Committee reported the Bill with amendments, motions were moved for agreement, and procedural issues—including the absence of the Majority Leader—delayed final adoption of the question. Members raised points of order concerning five constituencies that had not submitted their names to the NG‑CDF, leading to a dispute over the use of the term “lazy” to describe them. Hon. Musa Sirma agreed to withdraw the wording and rephrase it, while Hon. Ojiambo Oundo clarified that MPs do not submit committee member names under the NG‑CDF Act. The Temporary Speaker managed the procedural debate and called for apologies and corrections. Members debated the National Agricultural Policy sessional paper, with Hon. Kimani urging its passage to boost agriculture and Hon. Kitany supporting it, while Hon. Sunkuli questioned the paper’s legal status and the government’s commitment to implement its policies, especially for livestock. The discussion highlighted concerns over market monopolies, the need for extension services, and the importance of livestock to the economy.

The session began with quorum calls and proceeded to a substantive motion by Hon. Caroli Omondi addressing systemic corruption and its impacts on governance. Subsequent business involved procedural motions to exempt certain agenda items from standing orders, a request for the Agriculture Cabinet Secretary, and a point of order concerning a member’s attire. The debate was largely procedural with limited substantive exchange. Hon. Esther Passaris expressed solidarity with the Democratic Republic of Congo, highlighting the severe humanitarian crisis and urging regional intervention through the EAC and a proposed parliamentary friendship group. The Deputy Speaker subsequently deferred several questions and motions, concluding the session with an adjournment.

The Senate could not attain the required quorum of fifteen members despite two ten‑minute bell rings, as outlined by Standing Orders 39 and 40. Consequently, the Speaker adjourned the afternoon sitting to the following day. The procedural steps and quorum rules were recited during the session.

The National Assembly debated the Public Finance Management (Financial Inclusion Fund) Regulations, with Hon. Kimani Kuria expressing support while Hon. John Mbadi and others condemned the proposed 8% interest rate and the way administrative costs would be funded, calling it unfair to micro, small and medium enterprises. The discussion featured several points of order and clarifications on standing orders, including a rebuttal to comparisons with the PSC mortgage scheme. Members debated the Financial Inclusion Fund regulations, with Hon. John Mbadi and others urging the House to reject the current wording and re‑draft the rules, while Hon. Junet Mohamed criticised the Leader of the Majority Party for breaching standing orders. The session was marked by procedural challenges, personal remarks, and occasional laughter, reflecting a contentious but partially constructive discussion. Members debated a Bill to formalise the disbursement of conditional grants and donor funds to counties, highlighting the need for standardisation of county headquarters construction and transparency in leasing medical equipment. While the majority supported fast‑tracking the Bill to address drought relief and service delivery, strong criticism was voiced over the continued existence of the Managed Equipment Services (MES) scheme, calling for its immediate cancellation.

Senators debated the challenges Kenyan domestic workers face under the Bilateral Labour Agreement with Saudi Arabia, highlighting abuses, lack of enforcement of rights, and the need for a legal framework. They also emphasized the significant remittance inflows from the diaspora and proposed measures such as travel restrictions, improved immigration processes, and diaspora engagement to protect both workers and revenue. Senator Orwoba highlighted the safety risks Kenyan workers face in Saudi Arabia and the overstretched Kenyan embassy, urging stronger consular support and stricter regulation of recruitment agents. She called for domestic job creation through initiatives like scaling Kenya Airways, expanding Konza City, and attracting data centre investments to reduce reliance on overseas low‑skill labour. The speech combined criticism of current shortcomings with constructive proposals for economic growth. Senators highlighted the growing problem of Kenyan children and youth being trafficked by unregistered agents to work in Saudi Arabia, where many face exploitation, loss of documents and even death. They criticised the lack of resources in the Ministry of Labour and the embassies, urging a comprehensive report and concrete action, while also noting the positive remittances sent by some workers. The Senate moved to support a motion to rescue affected individuals and consider legislation to protect overseas Kenyan workers.

Hon. Oundo urged the adoption of the National Automotive Policy, calling for a ban on used vehicle imports, incentives for locally assembled vehicles and flexible financing to reduce accidents, pollution and create jobs. Hon. Kiarie backed the policy, highlighting the need for expanded manufacturing, zoning, research and the role of soft‑subject education in automotive design, while noting past missed opportunities. Both speakers emphasized swift regulatory action to boost employment, infrastructure and climate benefits. Hon. John Kiarie advocated for a forward‑looking automotive policy emphasizing green vehicles, bio‑fuels and local industry development, while urging broader transport infrastructure planning. Hon. Shakeel Shabbir countered by highlighting past implementation failures and questioning the relevance of the policy’s focus on conventional vehicles. The exchange reflected both enthusiasm for innovation and skepticism about practical execution. Members highlighted that many Kenyan internet users lose value when data bundles expire before full use and when speeds are deliberately reduced, accusing telecom providers of exploitative practices. They called on the Departmental Committee on Communication, Information and Innovation to investigate, report and ensure refunds before the parliamentary recess. The Temporary Speaker managed procedural interjections while several MPs underscored the urgency of protecting digital consumers.

Senators highlighted the severe impact of drought on livestock and the looming threat of food insecurity, urging both national and county governments to adopt coherent policies, subsidies for production, and value‑addition initiatives. While the motion received broad support, speakers criticised the repetitive nature of past debates and the lack of concrete action, calling for devolved, community‑driven solutions. The discussion emphasized the need for better storage, marketing, and poverty‑reduction measures to sustain Kenya’s agricultural sector. The Senate confirmed quorum and acknowledged a county security officer before debating a petition from Nyandarua County concerning the cancelled Ndunyu‑Njeru‑Ihithe road, with senators criticizing NEMA’s reliance on the Environmental Impact Assessment and stressing the road’s importance for local connectivity. A brief procedural point of order raised the absence of the Speaker’s portrait, prompting light‑hearted remarks, and other senators introduced papers on public participation in county budgeting. Senators discussed using reformed warriors from Turkana County in athletics to reduce violence and urged greater sports development and integration with education, while also raising accusations of human trafficking against a colleague. The debate then moved to a request for a health committee statement on persons with disabilities and a call for increased PWD representation in public offices. The session combined constructive proposals with pointed criticism, resulting in a mixed tone.

Members debated the misuse and fragmentation of agricultural land, urging stronger coordination between county and national authorities and a clear legal framework to curb speculation and idle holdings. They highlighted constitutional provisions, stressing the need for public participation to ensure reforms protect productive farmland and enhance food security. The discussion balanced criticism of current practices with proposals for policy and legislative action. Members debated a motion on land regulation, with Hon. Nzambia urging issuance of title deeds and use of land for affordable housing, while Hon. Tonkei opposed limits on large landholdings, citing pastoralist rights. Hon. Mwalika highlighted idle land, food insecurity, and suggested compulsory leasing to boost production and reduce GMO imports. The discussion reflected divergent views on land reform and its impact on agriculture and housing. Hon. Kimani Ichung'wah moved a motion to adopt Sessional Paper No. 1 of 2022 on the National Automotive Policy, outlining its objectives to revive Kenya's automotive assembly sector and expand local parts manufacturing. He highlighted the decline caused by market liberalisation and imported used vehicles, stressing the need for a legal framework, incentives, and skills development to create jobs and align with development goals. The debate emphasized both the policy’s constructive vision and criticism of past policies that weakened the industry.

Members debated the National Government Constituency Development Fund (NG-CDF), with Hon. Sergon highlighting alleged misuse and under‑utilisation in his county, while Hon. Millie Odhiambo defended the fund’s structure and accused him of misleading the House. Hon. Johana Kipyegon broadened the discussion to systemic corruption and praised NG‑CDF’s impact on schools and infrastructure, questioning why attention is on relatively small allocations. The Temporary Speaker reminded speakers to substantiate their claims. Members debated the challenges facing Kenya's education system, focusing on high uniform costs and the impending transition of students to junior secondary schools. The discussion centered on defending the NG-CDF, highlighting its role in building classrooms, providing bursaries and transport, and urging the release of its funds despite proposals to dismantle it. Members debated a petition urging the Constitutional Implementation Oversight Committee to conduct a comprehensive audit of the Constitution, emphasizing the need for consolidated amendments. The session also celebrated Kenya’s leadership in the Commonwealth Parliamentarians with Disability Network, with Hon. Tim Wanyonyi Wetangula elected chairperson, while the Temporary Speaker managed procedural and technical matters.

Members debated a motion to adjourn the House in order to scrutinise the government’s decision to import 10 million bags of genetically‑modified maize, arguing that the import could flood the market, depress farmgate prices and jeopardise farmers’ livelihoods. Hon. Abraham Kirwa highlighted the timing clash with a strong domestic harvest, questioned the safety of GMO maize and urged the Minister for Trade to explain the rationale before any further imports. The Speaker set procedural timelines for responses and allocated speaking time for the debate. Hon. Anthony Oluoch criticised the government’s decision to import 10 million bags of GMO maize, arguing that such a move requires Parliament’s approval under Article 94 and that the health, environmental and constitutional implications have not been properly examined. He highlighted potential risks to farmers and consumers, cited many countries that have rejected GMOs, and called for the House to safeguard its authority before any importation proceeds. Members highlighted that northern regions have sufficient maize harvests and questioned the timing and necessity of current imports, urging the government to prioritize local farmers and reconsider border tax restrictions. They also raised strong concerns about the introduction of GMOs, citing health risks, seed patent issues, and potential threats to farmer livelihoods. Calls were made for better subsidies, price controls, and community‑based food security initiatives.

Senators debated the County Governments Additional Allocations (No. 2) Bill, emphasizing the urgency of food security and the role of county governments in supporting agriculture. The discussion covered the adoption of genetically modified seeds, water‑conservation measures, and the need for innovative financing, but was marked by criticism of perceived governmental greed and delays, leading to the motion being postponed to the next sitting. Senators debated the government's decision to lift the ban on genetically modified organisms, with some condemning it as unpatriotic, harmful to farmers and potentially dangerous, while others cited scientific research, global usage and the need to improve food security. The discussion also raised religious objections, concerns over patent‑controlled seeds, and the lack of public understanding of GMO technology. The debate reflected sharply divided views on the safety, ethics and economic impact of GMOs in Kenya. Sen. (Dr.) Khalwale used his floor time to accuse county governors of misusing public funds, creating patronage jobs and establishing an unauthorised ‘first‑ladies’ caucus, urging the Senate to investigate the Ksh200 million Mumias Sugar Company case. The Senate then moved to a point of order and voted to adjourn at 5.30 p.m. to debate a motion on the government’s decision to permit cultivation and import of genetically modified organisms (GMOs). Procedural divisions and bell‑ringing were repeated as the House managed the agenda.

The morning sitting was dominated by the procedural counting of votes for the East African Legislative Assembly election, with multiple temporary speakers directing order and instructing the Serjeant‑at‑Arms. A heated interjection by Hon. Junet Mohamed questioned a reported zero vote for Azimio, was ruled out of order, and the counting resumed amid reminders to maintain silence and proper conduct. The House reported the voting figures and declared the nine elected Kenyan members to the East African Legislative Assembly, noting a smooth and orderly process. Members from both the Kenya Kwanza and Azimio la Umoja coalitions congratulated the winners and urged unity, emphasizing the importance of institutional memory and regional trade integration. Procedural steps were completed with the Clerk and Deputy Speaker coordinating the transmission of results to the Senate. The sitting opened with procedural remarks on quorum and voting arrangements, after which several members paid tribute to retiring clerk Lucy, praising her service and wishing her well. The debate then shifted to a motion by Hon. James Nyikal drawing attention to the ongoing challenges faced by internally displaced persons from the 2007 post‑election violence and urging effective implementation of the Operation Rudi Nyumbani resettlement programme.

Senators debated a Bill intended to formalise accounting and oversight of grants, loans and development partner funds to counties, praising its potential to improve transparency and accelerate Kshs32 billion in allocations. However, members raised strong objections to the inclusion of the Equalisation Fund, citing discriminatory allocation criteria and the fund’s lack of operationalisation, and called for clearer oversight mechanisms and investigations into delayed county projects. The discussion highlighted the need for robust reporting, impact assessments, and amendments to ensure equitable distribution and effective use of resources. Senator Ali Roba highlighted several shortcomings in the Additional Allocation Bill, notably the inappropriate bundling of the Equalisation Fund, the lack of provision for its administrative costs, and inconsistencies with conditional grant modalities. He also raised concerns about opaque contracts for leased medical equipment, delayed funding for county headquarters, and the evolving definition of marginalisation that affects fund allocation. The discussion called for legal clarification, better stakeholder engagement, and concrete reporting to address these gaps. Sen. Cheruiyot urged the privatization of public sugar mills to boost farmer earnings and challenged the view that sugar is a poor‑man's crop, while also pressing for the swift passage of the County Government Additional Allocation Bill, blaming Treasury delays for its hold‑up. The Senate debated procedural matters, with the Deputy Speaker guiding the reading of the Bill and other members seeking clarification. Overall, the session combined constructive proposals with criticism of administrative bottlenecks.

Senators highlighted the problem of illegal issuance of land titles and leases leading to forced demolitions, urging greater county involvement and referral to the Committee on Lands. They also raised concerns about upstream activities on the Tana River that cause flooding, erosion and affect downstream communities, calling for thorough environmental impact assessments and public participation. The debate combined criticism of current practices with constructive proposals for coordination and oversight. Senators debated the registration age and disbursement mechanisms for the OPCT elderly fund, urging use of mobile money and demanding full accounting of the alleged Ksh 50 billion spent on seniors. They also raised concerns about corruption and mismanagement in the tourism sector, warning of hotel closures and calling for urgent government intervention. The discussion combined constructive proposals with sharp criticism of current practices. Senators debated the mismanagement of the Tana River, condemning upstream dam releases by KenGen that cause floods, crop loss and loss of life downstream, and urging compensation for affected communities. They called for equitable water‑rights enforcement, better flood‑drought mitigation, and inclusive policy development involving all river‑basin stakeholders. The discussion combined criticism of current practices with constructive proposals for sustainable water governance.

The Temporary Speaker announced a quorum problem at the start of the morning sitting, ordered the quorum bell to be rung, and subsequently adjourned the House until 2:30 p.m. on the same day. No substantive debate took place, only procedural actions were recorded.

Members expressed strong support for the motion to increase tree planting as a means to boost Kenya's forest cover and combat climate change. They called for integrating tree‑planting requirements into building regulations, promoting environmental education in schools, and enhancing measures to prevent forest fires, with some urging the motion be escalated to a bill. The debate highlighted both the urgency of the issue and collaborative proposals for actionable policies. Members debated the government's tree‑planting agenda, urging that trees be planted and preserved along road corridors and that contractors replace any trees felled during construction. Parallel discussion focused on land fragmentation, the need to enforce constitutional limits on land holdings, and to improve land utilisation to address food security and population growth. Members debated the delayed disbursement of the National Government Constituency Development Fund (NG‑CDF) for FY 2022/23, citing Treasury financing shortfalls, the impact of the Russia‑Ukraine conflict, and pending legal clarification on the NG‑CDF Act. Hon. Kimani Ichung’wah presented the Treasury’s statement and a proposed weekly Ksh2 billion release, while Hon. Opiyo Wandayi warned that without clear legal and budgetary compliance the House could halt business. The discussion highlighted the need for an Attorney‑General opinion and parliamentary oversight of the fund’s release.

Senators discussed a motion praising a historic partnership that led to the creation of the Unclaimed Assets Authority and acknowledged the return of Sen. Mungatana. The Speaker then shifted to recount recent violent attacks and killings in Kitui County and surrounding areas, highlighting insecurity and its impact on communities. The debate was adjourned with a call to address these security concerns. Senators repeatedly expressed deep frustration over rising insecurity in Kitui, Turkana and other counties, blaming security officials for failures and calling for urgent government action. They highlighted the impact of drought‑driven migration and illegal firearms, urging the Cabinet Secretary and security agencies to mop up guns and address transition gaps. The debate called for a comprehensive investigation and stronger coordination among security bodies. Senator Cheptumo urged greater government support and funding for sports training centres to empower youth and generate wealth, praising the Kenya Kwanza manifesto’s focus on sports. The Senate also addressed procedural requests for statements on human‑wildlife conflict in Lamu, drought impacts on wildlife, and fatal boda‑boda accidents in Ndhiwa, referring them to the relevant committees.

The House discussed the work of the Joint Committee tasked with establishing a roadmap and overseeing the election of Kenya’s representatives to the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA), outlining the advertisement, application, and vetting timelines. It reported that 348 candidates applied, but only party‑nominated candidates met the required thresholds, resulting in no independent nominees being presented. The committee urged the House to adopt its report to ensure the EALA election proceeds on schedule. Members debated the accuracy of the NG‑CDF beneficiary list and urged swift amendment and disbursement of bursary funds to vulnerable children, with Hon. Chonga condemning the former Cabinet Secretary’s stance and calling for constitutional entrenchment of the fund. Hon. Musa Sirma supported the motion to approve the corrected list and warned against misinformation, while the Temporary Speaker deferred procedural questions and moved on to adopt the report on the East African Legislative Assembly elections. Members discussed the upcoming induction of the Liaison Committee, with the committee set to meet weekly starting the next day. A request was made for a statement on the disbursement of the National Government Constituencies Development Fund (NG‑CDF) following the Supreme Court ruling, and a motion was moved to hold a morning sitting on 17 November. The House also approved the list of nominees for the 124 NG‑CDF constituency committees.

Hon. John Kiarie moved a motion to mandate that road construction contractors plant trees along road corridors, arguing it would restore Nairobi’s green cover and provide environmental benefits. Hon. Wanjiku Muhia and other members welcomed the proposal, highlighting advantages for climate mitigation, drainage, noise reduction and mental health, while cautioning about implementation and the need for legislative safeguards. The debate reflected broad support tempered with concerns over enforcement and cost. Members praised the motion to plant trees along road reserves, emphasizing its benefits for erosion control, shade, and climate mitigation. They called for coordinated action involving government agencies, contractors, communities and youth, and linked the effort to Kenya's national five‑billion‑tree target. The debate highlighted both the urgency due to drought and the practical steps needed for implementation. The National Assembly addressed the President’s nomination of Ms. Mary Muthoni Muriuki for Principal Secretary of Correctional Services, outlining the procedural timeline for approval. The discussion then turned to urgent concerns about delayed NG‑CDF (and NG‑AAF) fund disbursements before the upcoming long recess, with members warning they may suspend business until the monies are released.

Senators raised concerns about the inadequate assessment facilities for persons with disabilities, urging expansion of centres and stronger legislation to enforce accessibility standards. The debate also highlighted urgent road safety issues, particularly the dangerous design of the Nithi Bridge, and several members sought statements from standing committees on agriculture, IMF‑imposed austerity, and transport levies. Overall, the sitting combined criticism of existing gaps with calls for concrete legislative and infrastructural action. Senators debated whether Muguka (khat) and Miraa should be classified as drugs, citing concerns about student drop‑outs and social harm while also noting their economic importance. The Speaker repeatedly invoked Standing Order No.105, urging members to substantiate factual claims with research before continuing the debate, and directed the issue to a committee report. Procedural tensions arose as some senators pushed for immediate discussion and others emphasized the need for documented evidence. The afternoon Senate session opened with a quorum check and the laying of numerous Auditor‑General reports on various county funds by Sen. Ltumbesi. The Speaker then acknowledged visiting clergy from Nyandarua County and foreign business delegations from India and the Democratic Republic of Congo, with senators offering welcomes and personal gratitude. The sitting was largely procedural with expressions of thanks and encouragement for investment.

Senators discussed the appointment of the new Inspector General, emphasizing the need for improved welfare, remuneration, and housing for police officers. They condemned past extrajudicial killings and called for accountability, while urging financial independence and mental‑health support for the police service. The debate reflected both optimism about reforms and concern over persistent challenges. Senators unanimously supported the motion to appoint Eng. Koome as the next Inspector General of Police, emphasizing his professional background and the need for fresh leadership. They highlighted persistent security challenges—including urban crime, cattle rustling, and drug abuse—as well as systemic issues such as police corruption, recruitment irregularities, and excessive traffic roadblocks, urging the new IG to address these problems. The debate also touched on broader development concerns, notably the impact of insecurity on tourism and regional projects like dam construction in the Kerio Valley. Senators debated the nomination of seven members to the Public Service Commission, emphasizing the need for trusteeship, accountability and representation of women and regional interests. While most speakers expressed confidence and gratitude for the nominees, some warned against self‑interest and stressed vigilance over future conduct. The discussion highlighted bipartisan cooperation but also underscored concerns about welfare and ethical standards for appointed officials.

Members overwhelmingly supported the motion to fund and empower SMEs, linking it to high unemployment and the need for low‑interest financing such as the Hustler Fund. They highlighted the plethora of existing policy papers and urged better implementation and reduced regulatory hurdles. Procedural concerns about quorum were also raised during the debate. Members highlighted the critical role of SMEs in Kenya's economy and urged the government to adopt a unified policy that provides capital, training, and market access. They also pointed out persistent challenges such as high borrowing costs, limited technology, and regulatory hurdles that hinder SME growth. The National Assembly approved the appointment of Eng. Japheth Koome Nchebere as Inspector General of the National Police Service and adopted a motion to earmark 2% of constituency and UWEZO funds for equipping youth artisans. It also endorsed the National Action Plan on Business and Human Rights and approved several committee appointments and related procedural motions. The debates were largely procedural and constructive, focusing on capacity‑building and governance matters.

Members debated a motion to empower youth by supporting musicians, artists, artisans and social media influencers, proposing funding through the NG‑CDF and the Hustler Fund. They highlighted the potential for job creation, export earnings and cultural promotion, urging tax incentives, embassy marketing and training programmes. The speakers expressed strong support for embedding the motion into law to ensure sustainable livelihoods for creative talent. Hon. Beatrice Elachi warned that recent market closures and fragmented policies are crippling Kenya’s SMEs, urging a coherent national policy, digitalisation of trade and better access to funds such as the Hustler and Economic Stimulus Funds. She criticised the Kenya Revenue Authority’s role in creating barriers while calling for a more conducive regulatory environment and highlighted the need for improved logistics and funding to revive the sector. The session also included a brief procedural motion on a defence committee report. Members advocated for greater support to artisans and vocational training, urging allocation of at least 2 % of the NG‑CDF and Uwezo Fund to develop youth‑led enterprises and a “Buy Kenya‑Build Kenya” strategy. They highlighted the need for databases of skilled workers, exhibitions, online marketing and protection of intellectual property, while noting current challenges such as limited funding, market access and competition from imports.

Senators expressed strong support for Kenya's delegation to the Pan‑African Parliament, highlighting the experience of Senators Mungatana and Prof. Kamar and urging gender balance and broader inclusion of youth and persons with disabilities. The debate also referenced climate change and climate justice, noting Africa's minimal contribution to global emissions and the need for regional action. Overall, the tone was congratulatory and forward‑looking with minimal procedural friction. Sen. Faki condemned the diversion of KMA training funds to a maritime liaison office in the UK, labeling the payment illegal and urging a committee investigation into the misallocation that threatens seafarer training. Sen. Sifuna highlighted the ongoing Kenya Airways pilots strike, blaming poor airline governance and government threats to the union, and called for lasting solutions to the underlying work‑condition issues. The session also touched on procedural concerns about discussing sub‑judice matters in the Senate. Senators highlighted the chronic problem of unpaid county bills to suppliers, warning that accumulated liabilities create a perpetual ‘merry‑go‑round’ and impede new projects. The Senate debated the need for legislation to prioritize and clear pending bills, while also moving a motion to approve members for the Pan‑African Parliament amid light procedural banter.

Members of the National Assembly, including Hon. Abraham Kirwa, Hon. David Kiplagat and Hon. Mwangi Kiunjuri, unanimously supported a motion to entrench the NG‑CDF and Senate Oversight Fund in the Constitution, highlighting their critical role in constituency development, education, health and poverty alleviation. They called for swift approval and allocation of the funds to address urgent needs such as bursaries, school feeding, drought relief and other grassroots projects. Members debated a constitutional amendment to entrench the NG‑CDF, NG‑AAF and the Senate Oversight Fund, highlighting the funds' role in supporting education and women’s political participation. While acknowledging legal challenges and the need for clear constitutional wording, speakers expressed strong support for fast‑tracking the legislation to safeguard public‑benefit programmes. Members debated a constitutional amendment to entrench the National Government Constituency Development Fund (NG-CDF) and Ward Funds, emphasizing its role in supporting education, infrastructure and equity, especially amid drought and famine. The speakers highlighted concrete achievements in schools, health facilities and local administration, and urged unanimous parliamentary support despite acknowledging some opposition.

The debate focused on defending the NG‑CDF, with Hon. Paul Biego urging that the fund remain constitutionally entrenched to support education, security and local development, and highlighting its accountability mechanisms. The session then moved to Hon. Atieno Bensouda’s maiden speech, where she emphasized service delivery, her educational background, transparency, and environmental stewardship as priorities for the 13th Parliament. Members expressed strong support for amending the Constitution to entrench the NG‑CDF, citing its role in building schools, providing bursaries and supporting police stations. They also urged that the NG‑AAF be similarly anchored and that fund allocations reflect constituency population sizes. While praising the funds’ impact, speakers highlighted concerns about unequal distribution and the risk of voter apathy if the funds were removed. Members debated a proposal to constitutionalise the National Government Constituencies Development Fund (NG‑CDF), the National Government African Allocation Fund (NGAAF), the Senate Oversight Fund and the Economic Empowerment Fund, emphasizing the need for legislation to harmonise these funds with existing Acts. Hon. Murugara, Hon. Mugabe and Hon. Momanyi voiced strong support, highlighting the funds' role in poverty alleviation, education and community development, and urged all MPs to attend the upcoming vote. The tone was largely supportive, calling for sober debate but stressing the importance of protecting these resources for the poor.

The session began with a quorum check and procedural reminders from the Temporary Speaker. The substantive contribution came from Dr. Robert Pukose, who advocated for establishing a Swahili Council to promote the language alongside English and warned that the rise of Sheng threatens the purity and utility of Swahili in education, commerce, and healthcare. Hon. John Kiarie moved a motion urging the Parliament to recognise and support youth talent and innovations, stressing the need for administrative measures to commercialise inventions and create jobs in line with Vision 2030. The Temporary Speaker deferred the seconding of the motion and adjourned the sitting until the afternoon.

Hon. Kimani Ichung’wah moved a motion to adopt Sessional Paper No. 3 of 2021, the National Action Plan on Business and Human Rights, highlighting Kenya’s pioneering role in this area. He outlined the plan’s four objectives and cited examples of business‑related human rights concerns such as land displacement, environmental degradation, unsafe labour conditions and lack of remedies, urging Parliament to endorse the policy. The debate centered on the need for stronger safeguards as foreign and domestic investment expands. Hon. Stephen Mule led a debate urging the House to constitutionalise the National Government Constituencies Development Fund (NG‑CDF) and related funds, highlighting their extensive contributions to education, health, security and infrastructure. He appealed for bipartisan support to achieve the two‑thirds majority needed for amendment, while warning against opposition that could undermine the funds. The discussion also introduced the National Government Affirmative Action Fund, a Senate Oversight Fund and an Economic Stimulus and Empowerment Fund as additional constitutional provisions. Members debated a proposed constitutional amendment to anchor the National Government Constituencies Development Fund (NG‑CDF), emphasizing its role in poverty alleviation and urging safeguards against misuse. Concerns were raised about constitutional consistency, particularly with Article 95 and the lack of a Senate, while some MPs advocated expanding the fund to cover water and sports initiatives. The overall tone combined constructive support for the amendment with cautionary criticism of potential legal and oversight issues.

Members discussed the approval of the Parliamentary Service Commission's report, emphasizing respect for the rule of law and the need to support the commission's product despite possible disagreements. The Speaker oversaw a division, directing a roll‑call vote and stressing decorum and procedural compliance throughout the session. The National Assembly debated a motion to appoint Mr. Samuel Njoroge as Clerk, with the Speaker repeatedly urging order and adherence to standing orders amid loud consultations. Members highlighted the recruitment process, past contractual appointments, and procedural requirements under the Constitution. The session was marked by procedural clarification but also noticeable tension over decorum. Members debated a motion to mandate tree planting in all road designs and require contractors to replace trees removed during construction, highlighting environmental benefits. A personal statement raised concerns over an impersonating Twitter account and called for action against misinformation. A separate motion urged the government to remunerate village elders for their public service, with procedural interjections throughout.

Hon. Kimani Ichung’wah outlined the procedures for allocating members to departmental and select committees, emphasizing compliance with standing orders and fair representation of majority, minority, independent and non‑parliamentary parties. He highlighted the upcoming nomination of principal secretaries and the need for joint vetting of the Inspector‑General of Police, while urging MPs to be active in their assigned committees despite the inevitable disappointment for some members. Members lauded the contributions of village elders across the executive, legislative and local levels and urged the House to enact remuneration for them, noting the motion has been tabled in several previous parliaments. The debate was largely supportive, with calls for implementation and a procedural request to defer the vote due to insufficient quorum. Members debated a motion to provide stipends, salaries and uniforms for village elders, highlighting their role in dispute resolution, security and community development. While several MPs strongly supported the motion as overdue, the session also saw procedural tensions, with the Speaker ordering members to leave the chamber and discussions about committee assignments. The overall tone reflects both constructive advocacy for the elders and moments of parliamentary discord.

The afternoon sitting was marked by heated exchanges over parliamentary conduct, with the Deputy Speaker repeatedly urging members to withdraw and apologise for disorderly behaviour. Amid the procedural clashes, Senators raised concerns about high electricity costs, faulty transformers in Nandi County, and the financing of Kenya Power, calling for accountability and reforms. The session also included a welcome to a visiting group of teachers and students from Naivasha High School. Senators discussed persistent delays in land adjudication and titling, highlighting the need for GPS mapping and clearer compensation mechanisms for land taken for public use. The Deputy Speaker urged members to address issues in committee meetings rather than lengthy statements, prompting procedural questions about commenting on statements versus petitions. The debate reflected both constructive proposals and frustration over ongoing land‑related challenges. Senators highlighted the severe drought affecting pastoralist communities, urging a renewed emergency declaration and the deferment of projects to address the humanitarian crisis. The debate then shifted to allegations of irregular remuneration and potential conflicts of interest involving the State Corporations Commission chairperson, contrasting her benefits with those of low‑paid public staff. Members called for investigations, transparency and possible removal of the chairperson to uphold accountability.