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{
    "id": 118282,
    "url": "https://info.mzalendo.com/api/v0.1/hansard/entries/118282/?format=api",
    "text_counter": 412,
    "type": "speech",
    "speaker_name": "Mr. Deputy Speaker",
    "speaker_title": "",
    "speaker": null,
    "content": "Hon. Members, before I open the Floor for Members to contribute to this Bill, the Chair wishes to make some communication for the benefit of the Bill itself. Hon. Members, I wish to remind you that consideration of the Constitution of Kenya (Amendment) Bill before us is guided by both the Standing Orders and the provisions of Section 47(2) of the Constitution. Standing Order No.68 (a) provides that before a vote is taken on a Constitutional amendment Bill, both at the Second and Third Reading stage, the perquisite numbers of 65 per cent of 222 Members must be present in the House. Specifically, Standing Order No.68 (a) states:- “In every instance where the Constitution lays down that a fixed majority is necessary to decide any question, the House shall not proceed to a Division on that question (Constitutional Amendment) unless and until a number of Members equivalent to such fixed majority is present at the time for directing the Division”. The rules on Division are clearly set out under part 14 of the Standing Orders. Therefore, hon. Members as we take Order No.8, bear in mind that the Second Reading will only be taken if the perquisite number prescribed by both the Standing Orders and the Constitution are ascertained to be present in the House. In terms of numbers, 65 per cent of 222 adds up to 144.3 Members which is rounded upwards to 145 Members since the words used are, “Not less than 65 per cent of the Members of the Assembly, excluding ex-officio Members”. This House will accordingly not proceed to division unless there are at least 145 Members present in the House at the time of directing the Division. Hon. Members, please, note further, that if the Division on that question results in a majority of “Ayes’ but less than 145 Members and the “Nos” have not numbered 78 Members or more, Mr. Speaker may direct one further Division within seven days. Thank you."
}