Bunge Bits

THE NATIONAL ASSEMBLY PROCEEDINGS | WEDNESDAY 18TH JUNE , 2025 | AFTERNOON SESSION Wednesday 18th June, 2025 | Afternoon Session The sitting of the Kenyan National Assembly on June 18, 2025, focused on discussing various financial and legislative bills. Key discussions included the Appropriation Bill, the Equalization Fund Appropriation Bill, and the Kenya Roads Amendment Bill, among others. The members debated on budget allocations, the management of equalization funds, and amendments aimed at improving governance within state corporations. Bills Discussed County Public Finance Laws Amendment Bill, Senate Bill No. 39 of 2023: Discussion deferred. Appropriation Bill, National Assembly Bill No. 23 of 2025: Aimed at authorizing funds for government expenditure for the fiscal year 2025-2026. Equalization Fund Appropriation Bill, National Assembly Bill No. 21 of 2025: Appropriates funds to marginalized regions for basic services. Kenya Roads Amendment No. 2 Bill, National Assembly Bill No. 16 of 2025: Proposed to align the terms for Director Generals of road sectors with the national standards. Kenya National Council for Population and Development Bill, National Assembly Bill No. 72 of 2023: Focused on streamlining the organizational structure and functions of the council. Topics Discussed Transparency and accountability in government expenditure Marginalization and allocation of equalization funds Governance and efficiency in state corporations The impact of budget allocations on county development Policies to enhance revenue collection and reduce fiscal deficit Role of Parliament in oversight and adherence to national development goals Key Takeaways and Decisions Approval of increased county share allocation to 415 billion after mediation. Legislative amendment to reduce terms of service for Director Generals in road agencies to promote efficiency and adherence to governance codes. Reiteration on the importance of aligning budgeting practices to national and international best practices. Engagement in future legislative amendments to bolster budgetary effectiveness and equity in resource distribution. Major Participants Hon. Samuel Atandi: Chair, Budget and Appropriations Committee, emphasized responsible fiscal management. Hon. Kimani Kuria: Chair, Finance Committee, highlighted the importance of consistent tax policies. Hon. Irene Mayaka: Seconded the Roads Amendment Bill, noting the importance of adherence to governance standards. Hon. Dido Raso: Raised concerns regarding the equitable distribution of equalization funds. Key Moments Heated discussions over the marginalization policy and its effectiveness in uplifting deprived areas. Calls for maintaining the integrity and transparency in the utilization of equalization funds in county projects. Notable Quotes “Let us be serious. National Government, CDF, KERA, KURA, should remain with the National Government.” – Hon. Samuel Moroto “We must make consistent steps in growing and incentivizing our manufacturing sector.” – Hon. Kimani Kuria This summary was generated from official YouTube livestreams of the Kenyan Parliament using *bunge-bits*, an automated transcription and summarization tool.

National Assembly Proceedings Summary Wednesday 18 June, 2025 | Morning Session The morning session covered a mix of legislative activity, committee business, and private members' motions. Several bills progressed through various stages, including appropriation, tax reform, and conservation. The House also passed a special motion approving three new commissioners for the National Police Service Commission. Additionally, members debated a wide-reaching motion on the expansion of major roads into dual carriageways, and opened discussion on a new regulatory framework for artificial intelligence. Bills Discussed Agriculture and Livestock Extension Services Bill, Senate Bill No. 12 of 2022 – Read a second time and passed Finance Bill, National Assembly Bill No. 19 of 2025 – Read a second time and passed Special Motion: Appointment to the National Police Service Commission – Approved three nominees County Public Finance Laws Amendment Bill, Senate Bill No. 39 of 2023 – Deferred due to mover's absence National Construction Authority Amendment Bill, National Assembly Bill No. 59 of 2022 – Senate amendment rejected by the House Wildlife Conservation and Management Amendment Bill, National Assembly Bill No. 3 of 2023 – Passed Third Reading Topics Discussed Streamlining extension services in agriculture and livestock Amendments to taxation laws and fiscal administration Compensation for wildlife-related injuries in coastal and maritime regions Public safety concerns for Kenyans living abroad Expansion of major trunk roads to dual carriageways Need for PPP models in road infrastructure Regulatory gaps and opportunities in artificial intelligence Challenges of AI misuse, misinformation, and employment disruption Key Takeaways and Decisions House approved the appointment of three new commissioners to the National Police Service Commission Senate's proposed amendments to exempt Classes 6–8 contractors under NCA were rejected The Wildlife Conservation and Management Amendment Bill was passed, now including marine-related injuries under compensation schemes Motion to expand trunk roads to dual carriageways received broad support Motion urging the government to formulate a regulatory framework for artificial intelligence was introduced and heavily debated Major Participants Hon. Naomi Waqo, Deputy Speaker: Presided over the session Hon. Ruweida Obo: Successfully moved the Wildlife Conservation Amendment Bill Hon. David Gikaria: Rejected Senate amendments to the NCA Bill Hon. Faith Gitau: Moved motion on road expansion to dual carriageways Hon. Marianne Kitany: Moved motion on AI regulation Hon. Gideon Ochanda, Hon. Rachel Nyamai, Hon. Ekomas Mutuse, Hon. Naomi Waqo, Hon. Wilberforce Oundo: Spoke on the road infrastructure motion Hon. Dr. John Mutunga, Hon. Geoffrey Mulanya, Hon. Patrick Nduiga, Hon. Adan Keynan, Hon. Joseph Cherorot: Contributed to the AI regulation debate Key Moments Emotional remarks on compensation for stringray attacks, shark injuries, and other sea-related incidents in coastal areas MPs debated the impact of AI on employment, privacy, education, and misinformation House members supported extending compensation for wildlife injuries to maritime contexts, citing specific cases from Lamu and Mombasa Calls to fast-track assent of the Wildlife Amendment Bill to address long-standing coastal community grievances Members highlighted regional infrastructure disparities and the potential of PPPs in addressing funding shortfalls Notable Quotes “People were losing limbs every month from stingrays — this law will finally protect our people.” – Hon. Ruweida Obo “If you want express to Malava, pay. If not, stay in traffic — we need PPPs.” – Hon. Faith Gitau “AI must be regulated before it runs ahead of government.” – Hon. Gideon Ochanda This summary was generated from official YouTube livestreams of the Kenyan Parliament using *bunge-bits*, an automated transcription and summarization tool.

National Assembly Proceedings Summary Tuesday 18 June, 2025 | Afternoon Session The session focused on the Second Reading of the Finance Bill, 2025, alongside the First Reading of two key appropriation bills. Members also considered a special motion approving three appointments to the National Police Service Commission. Debate around the Finance Bill highlighted issues of tax equity, digital compliance, and social protection. Several members voiced support while urging caution on measures that might burden ordinary Kenyans. Additional focus was placed on constituency development fund disbursements, regional disparities, and parliamentary independence. Bills Discussed Equalization Fund Appropriation Bill, National Assembly Bill No. 21 of 2025 – First Reading; publication period reduced from 7 to 6 days Appropriation Bill, National Assembly Bill No. 23 of 2025 – First Reading; publication period reduced from 7 to 5 days The Constitution of Kenya (Amendment) Bill, National Assembly Bill No. 4 of 2025 – Mentioned in committee report Finance Bill, National Assembly Bill No. 19 of 2025 – Second Reading Special Motion: Appointment to the National Police Service Commission – Approved nominees Ms. Peris Mudoni Kimani, Mr. Benjamin Juma Imai, and Prof. Coletta A. Suda Topics Discussed Tax fairness and the impact of digital economy taxation Rising fuel prices and proposals for exemption of key inputs Constituency Development Fund (CDF) delays and budget disbursement challenges Climate change response and funding for ASAL regions Education funding, NG-CDF bursaries, and support for students Financing of the Kenya Revenue Authority and audit transparency Role of Parliament in protecting national economic sovereignty Key Takeaways and Decisions First Reading of both the Equalization Fund Appropriation Bill and the Appropriation Bill completed House approved publication waivers for both bills to expedite debate The National Assembly approved three nominees to the National Police Service Commission Second Reading of the Finance Bill began, with multiple MPs contributing positions Major Participants Hon. Naomi Waqo, Deputy Speaker: Presided over the session Hon. Kuria Kimani, Chair, Finance Committee: Introduced the Finance Bill and summarized committee recommendations Hon. Makali Mulu: Cautioned against over-reliance on digital taxation and praised targeted subsidy protection Hon. Robert Mbui: Urged for increased education funding and proper CDF utilization Hon. Yusuf Hassan: Called for greater tax equity and strengthened oversight of KRA Hon. Rindikiri Mugambi: Advocated for locally driven economic solutions Hon. Mishi Mboko: Emphasized gender equity and investment in girls' education Key Moments Parliament approved the appointment of three commissioners to the National Police Service Commission Multiple members raised concerns over fairness in tax administration and urged protection of vulnerable households Delays in disbursement of NG-CDF funds were flagged as urgent by several MPs Notable Quotes “The moment you tax the tools of production, you reduce productivity.” – Hon. Rindikiri Mugambi “We must be seen to protect the hustler from oppressive tax policies.” – Hon. Makali Mulu “Revenue is important, but Parliament must remain the guardian of the people’s economic welfare.” – Hon. Yusuf Hassan This summary was generated from official YouTube livestreams of the Kenyan Parliament using *bunge-bits*, an automated transcription and summarization tool.

National Assembly Proceedings Summary Thursday 12 June, 2025 | Afternoon Session The session focused on the presentation of the 2025–2026 national budget by the Cabinet Secretary for the National Treasury and Economic Planning. Key highlights included fiscal consolidation, structural reforms, sectoral investments, and a strong emphasis on social protection and inclusive growth. The House also addressed police accountability, the pending Finance Bill, and several other bills, motions, and committee reports. Bills Discussed Culture Bill, National Assembly Bill No. 12 of 2024 – Read a third time and passed Learners with Disabilities Bill, Senate Bill No. 4 of 2023 – Read a second time and passed Political Parties Amendment (No. 2) Bill, Senate Bill No. 26 of 2024 – Read a second time and passed Finance Bill, National Assembly Bill No. 19 of 2025 – Report tabled by Finance Committee; under public and House scrutiny Virtual Asset Service Providers Bill, 2025 – Mentioned by CS in speech; currently before Parliament County Governments Revenue Raising Process Bill – Mentioned by CS; before Parliament Government-Owned Enterprises Bill, 2024 – Mentioned by CS; before Parliament Public Procurement and Asset Disposal Amendment Bill, 2024 – Mentioned by CS; before Parliament Topics Discussed Presentation of the 2025–2026 Budget Highlights by the Cabinet Secretary Police accountability and committee investigations into the death of Albert Ojwang Economic performance, inflation, fiscal policy, and public debt Sectoral investments under the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA) National tax and procurement reforms County revenue sharing and devolution funding Youth empowerment, MSME credit access, and job creation Strengthening of healthcare, education, infrastructure, and housing Environmental protection, water access, and climate resilience programs Key Takeaways and Decisions The Culture Bill was passed at Third Reading The House adopted the Public Debt and Privatization Committee’s report on consolidated fund expenditures Learners with Disabilities Bill and Political Parties Amendment Bill were read and passed at second reading The Finance Bill 2025 was formally tabled for public and House consideration A public budget presentation was delivered by CS John Mbadi per Standing Orders No new taxes were introduced in the Finance Bill; focus shifted to tax equity, compliance, and revenue administration Major Participants Hon. John Mbadi, Cabinet Secretary for National Treasury and Economic Planning: Delivered the national budget Hon. Naomi Waqo, Deputy Speaker: Presided over the session Hon. Tongoyo, Chair, Internal Security Committee: Reported progress on investigations into Albert Ojwang’s death Hon. Junet Mohamed, Minority Leader: Called for accountability but urged against politicizing the Ojwang case Hon. Catherine Omanyo: Seconded the Culture Bill Hon. Robert Mbui: Raised concerns about CDF and RMLF funding before the budget speech Key Moments The Cabinet Secretary honored those who lost lives during 2023–2024 Finance Bill protests with a moment of silence in the Chamber A heated yet controlled exchange took place around politicization of police brutality and ongoing investigations The CS emphasized Kenya’s adoption of zero-based budgeting and a shift to accrual accounting Members were reminded to read the tabled Finance Bill to avoid misinformation circulating in public discourse Notable Quotes “No life should be lost and no property should be destroyed again.” – Hon. John Mbadi “Let us not politicize this matter. If you want politics, kill your son, and go and mourn on your own.” – Hon. Junet Mohamed “Gone without apology. Kenya is not a small economy.” – Hon. John Mbadi, defending the length of his budget statement This summary was generated from official YouTube livestreams of the Kenyan Parliament using *bunge-bits*, an automated transcription and summarization tool.

PARLIAMENTARY REVIEW OF 2025-2026 BUDGET AND FINANCIAL STRATEGIES The sessions covered a comprehensive overview of Kenya’s 2025-2026 national budget preparation, focusing on budget allocations, the anticipated Finance Bill, public debt management, and ensuring fiscal accountability. Key highlights included the emphasis on broadening tax bases without new tax introductions, strategic expenditure realignments, and managing pending bills' economic impact. Topics Discussed Budget adjustments and allocations for the 2025-2026 fiscal year Finance Bill proposals and tax base strategies Debt management: emphasis on domestic borrowing Public sector pending bills and economic implications Transparency and accountability in implementing Auditor General recommendations Role of parliamentary committees in budget processes Upcoming budget highlights presentation by the Cabinet Secretary for the National Treasury Key Takeaways and Decisions Increased allocations confirmed for infrastructure, security, health, and education, with special allocations for examination fees. No new taxes proposed; focus remains on sealing tax collection loopholes and fiscal prudence through the Finance Bill. Shift towards domestic borrowing, targeting 500 billion shillings to minimize external debt reliance. Advocacy for a Single Treasury Account is reiterated to optimize cash management. Recognition of the urgency to address pending bills, noting their negative impact on the economy. A conservative revenue forecast aims to align with realistic financial projections to avoid past discrepancies between targets and actual collection. Major Participants Hon. Samuel Atandi, Chair of the Budget and Appropriations Committee, provided key insights into budget amendments. Hon. Makali Mulu contributed expertise on budget allocations and revenue strategies. Dr. Masinde, Director of the Parliamentary Budget Office, shared analytical perspectives on budget projections. The Cabinet Secretary for the National Treasury, Hon. John Mbadi, is expected to soon present the budget highlights. Key Moments Incisive parliamentary discussions underscored the necessity of realistic revenue projections and public participation’s role in identifying budget priorities. Emphasis on the implementation challenges concerning Auditor General's findings, calling for political and legislative support for efficient fiscal governance. This summary was generated from official YouTube streams of the Kenyan Parliament using bunge-bits, an automated transcription and summarization tool.

The Senate Plenary, Thursday 12th June 2025. Afternoon Session Thursday 12th June 2025 | Afternoon Session The session focused on several important legislative and oversight areas including discussions on social protection measures, adjustments to the division of revenue among counties, and various statements concerning national and county-level issues. There were motions concerning the adjournment for a recess and the ongoing mediation over crucial bills. Bills Discussed The Mung Beans Bill, Senate Bills No. 13 of 2022 – Referred to a mediation committee after a decision by the National Assembly. The Social Protection Bill, National Assembly Bills No. 12 of 2025 – Proposed for a second reading, creating a framework for non-contributory social protection interventions in Kenya. Business Laws Amendment Bill, Senate Bills No. 51 of 2024 – Moved to the second reading. Labor Migration and Management Bill, Senate Bills No. 42 of 2024 – Moved to the second reading. Topics Discussed Implementation of social protection policies Review and adjustments to the county revenue sharing formula Concerns of Nairobi city governance, specifically on land rates and public services Quality of agricultural produce, particularly potatoes in Nyandarwa County Governance issues regarding constituency boundaries and electoral processes Key Takeaways and Decisions Mediation committee was appointed to resolve issues related to the Mung Beans Bill. Approval of proposed amendments to the division of revenue among counties which saw certain counties receiving adjusted amounts. Adoption of the Social Protection Bill in its second reading sought to improve the framework for aiding vulnerable communities in Kenya. Adjournment motion passed, marking the start of a recess until July 8th, 2025. Major Participants Hon. Beatrice Ogola: Seconded the Social Protection Bill, highlighting its impact on vulnerable groups. Senator Cherargei: Spoke on issues of social protection and governance. Senator John Methu: Discussed agricultural safety and constituency boundary reviews. Senator Professor Margaret Kamar: Seconded the motion for Senate adjournment. Key Moments Senators expressed strong concerns over the conduct of government and county officials in respect to the implementation of social programs, revealing discrepancies in service delivery. A vivid debate over the effective taxation and distribution of resources, pointing to ongoing governance challenges in varying regions of the country. Notable Quotes “The true test of a nation is not its wealth or military might, but how it treats its most vulnerable.” – Senator Cherargei This summary was generated from official YouTube livestreams of the Kenyan Parliament using *bunge-bits*, an automated transcription and summarization tool.

THE NATIONAL ASSEMBLY PROCEEDINGS | TUESDAY 10TH JUNE , 2025 | AFTERNOON SESSION Tuesday 10th June, 2025 | Afternoon Session The Kenyan National Assembly convened to deliberate on the 2025/2026 budget estimates. The assembly discussed various budget allocations across several state departments, debated on allocations for the judiciary, security, education, health, and oversight funds. Concerns were raised about equitable distribution across regions and sectors and the efficiency of budget utilization. Bills Discussed None explicitly mentioned. Topics Discussed Budget allocations for different state departments. Oversight funds and their implementation. Disbursement of development projects. The effectiveness of new oversight and compensation mechanisms. The need for transparency in resource allocation. Support and funding for national security services. Key Takeaways and Decisions Approval of the national budget for the financial year 2025/2026 with amendments. Discussions on the effectiveness and transparency of budget allocation. A call for equitable resource distribution and timely project execution. Agreement on the insufficiency of current oversight mechanisms and funds. Major Participants Hon. Samuel Atandi: Chaired the Budget and Appropriations discussion, providing insights into allocations and amendments, emphasizing equitable distribution. Hon. George Kaluma: Emphasized the importance of spreading resources evenly across all sectors and regions. Hon. Owen Baya: Criticized the Senate's oversight fund and emphasized the need for effectiveness in county oversight roles. Key Moments Criticism of the Senate's use of oversight funds, with members questioning its effectiveness and calling for the funds to be reviewed or scrapped if not matched by performance. Agreement to share detailed lists of road allocations to ensure transparency. This summary was generated from official YouTube livestreams of the Kenyan Parliament using *bunge-bits*, an automated transcription and summarization tool.

National Assembly Proceedings Summary Wednesday 11 June, 2025 | Afternoon Session The National Assembly session on June 11th, 2025, focused on the Committee of Supply's motion concerning the national government’s expenditure estimates for the Financial Year 2025–2026. Members debated budget allocations across key ministries, the scope of recurrent vs development expenditure, and issues surrounding fiscal equity, national debt, and program delivery effectiveness. Bills Discussed Motion on the Committee of Supply Report: Estimates of Recurrent and Development Expenditure for FY 2025–2026 Topics Discussed National government budget size and structure Sectoral allocation: health, education, infrastructure, agriculture Concerns over fiscal discipline and rising public debt County and constituency equity in budget distribution Development project backlog and performance tracking Role of Parliament in scrutinizing Executive spending plans Key Takeaways and Decisions KES 2.5 trillion authorized from the Consolidated Fund for FY 2025–2026 Budget passed under Article 221 of the Constitution and PFM Act provisions Calls for enhanced monitoring of development implementation Members urged a more equitable allocation model to balance marginalized regions Support for sector-specific programs: school feeding, universal healthcare, rural roads Major Participants Deputy/Temporary Speaker: Presided over the session Hon. Ndindi Nyoro: Chair of the Budget & Appropriations Committee; moved the motion Hon. Makali Mulu, Hon. Robert Mbui, Hon. Beatrice Elachi: Raised concerns over sectoral priorities and execution gaps Hon. Yusuf Hassan, Hon. David Ochieng’: Pushed for equitable development and urban inclusion Hon. (Dr.) James Nyikal: Commented on health budget gaps and sustainability Key Moments Members questioned underperformance of past allocations despite repeated approvals Multiple MPs emphasized implementation audit as key to public trust Call to ring-fence funds for critical social services including education bursaries and NHIF Notable Quotes “Approving the budget is one thing; ensuring it changes lives is another.” – Hon. Makali Mulu “Let no Kenyan feel left out because of where they come from.” – Hon. Beatrice Elachi “We must fund both roads and hospitals — but finish what we start.” – Hon. Robert Mbui This summary was generated from official Hansard transcripts of the Kenyan Parliament using *bunge-bits*, an automated transcription and summarization tool.

Death of Albert Ojwang – Senate Inquiry Wednesday 12 June, 2025 | Afternoon Session The Senate held a special session focused entirely on the circumstances surrounding the death of Albert Ojwang while in police custody. Senators expressed outrage, grief, and called for accountability from the police, the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA), and the Ministry of Interior. Testimonies were heard from the Cabinet Secretary for Interior, the Inspector General, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), and IPOA representatives. The session highlighted systemic issues in the justice and security system. Topics Discussed Death of Albert Ojwang in Central Police custody Role and potential culpability of Deputy Inspector General Eliud Lagat Police brutality and extrajudicial killings Allegations of tampered CCTV and evidence destruction Selective justice and police cover-ups Accountability of senior officers and double standards Inhumane treatment in police cells, including recent death of a pregnant woman Resource constraints and reforms within IPOA and National Police Service Cybercrime enforcement and overreach in arrest protocols Broader insecurity and state-sanctioned violence concerns Key Takeaways and Decisions IPOA confirmed the CCTV DVR had been tampered with and was under forensic analysis IPOA committed to submitting findings to the DPP within 10 days The Senate Standing Committee on National Security was formally directed to take over the matter and table a report The Senate will reconvene during recess for a special session to receive the committee’s report The Cabinet Secretary promised justice and pledged ministry support to the victim’s family The IG ordered an internal probe into a related case of a woman who miscarried while in police custody Major Participants Kipchumba Murkomen, CS Interior: Promised reforms and support for Ojwang’s family; pushed back on resignation calls Inspector General Japhet Koome: Expressed regret, confirmed early misreporting, promised accountability Eliud Lagat, Deputy Inspector General: Accused of direct oversight of the unit involved in Ojwang’s detention; several senators called for his resignation or suspension DCI Director Mohamed Amin: Defended arrest process; insisted identity challenges prevented summoning Ojwang IPOA Vice Chair Anne Mwangi: Confirmed tampering of CCTV, outlined ongoing investigations and staffing constraints Sen. Karen Nyamu: Questioned IG’s motives and accused police of sabotaging the government’s reputation Sen. Karungo wa Thang’wa: Declared Ojwang a martyr, demanded arrests, and criticized police hierarchy Sen. Veronica Maina: Urged financial and emotional support for Ojwang’s widow and child Sen. Margaret Kamar: Questioned IPOA’s progress post-autopsy ruling out suicide Sen. Hamida Kibwana: Questioned why Ojwang was denied legal representation and why his family was not engaged sooner Sen. Onyonka Richard: Called for a broader inquiry into patterns of state-linked killings and cover-ups Key Moments The session was suspended from normal business to allow for the inquiry Several senators demanded resignation or suspension of DIG Eliud Lagat Murkomen’s tense exchange with Sen. Cherargei over competence and past academic performance drew sharp reactions A second incident involving a woman miscarrying in custody the previous day intensified scrutiny on police practices IPOA reported 17 officers from the station were under investigation Notable Quotes “The only weapon we have to defend our people is the Constitution of Kenya.” – Sen. Hezena Lemaletian “If anybody dies at the hands of the police, don’t bury them. Go to the police station and demand justice.” – Sen. Karungo wa Thang’wa “Even an unborn person has the right to live.” – Sen. Methu on the miscarriage in custody This summary was generated from official YouTube livestreams of the Kenyan Parliament using *bunge-bits*, an automated transcription and summarization tool.