What has happened to our numbers?

Addis Ababa.

Addis? That notwithstanding, we have quorum to transact business. We can start.

Hon. Yusuf, take the nearest seat. I thought you had already taken a seat. Hon. Members, I have several short communications to make.

Hon. Members, as you all know, the Republic of Kenya exists within a community of nations. To this end, the Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, with the approval of the Cabinet, has prepared the Foreign Policy of the Republic of Kenya to guide the country’s international affairs, including promoting, protecting, and projecting Kenya’s interest within the community of nations. The Policy has since been submitted to the National Assembly as Sessional Paper No. 1 of 2025. It will be laid on the Table this afternoon when we reach Order No. 5. The Foreign Policy, as contained in Sessional Paper No. 1 of 2025, was developed in an elaborate and highly participatory process. Indeed, part of the Leadership of this House and some Members from the Departmental Committee on Defence, Intelligence and Foreign Relations attended its unveiling by His Excellency the President on 2nd December 2024, at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC). You will agree with me that the primacy of the Foreign Policy in guiding our country's international relations cannot be gainsaid. I, therefore, urge the Departmental Committee on Defence and Foreign Relations to consider Policy as a matter of priority and submit its report to the House as soon as possible for adoption. Since the Policy will guide the conduct of the country’s international affairs, its expedited approval by this House is necessary. The House is accordingly guided. If I may exercise some bragging rights, I prepared the first foreign Policy for this country when I was the Minister of Foreign Affairs.

The electronic version of the Official Hansard Report is for information purposesonly. A certified version of this Report can be obtained from the Hansard Editor.

At the centre of it, I put our athletes as the country’s first ambassadors all over the world. They cause our national anthem to be played in all capital cities of the world where sports are conducted. I also put the diaspora at the centre of our Policy. This is an improved version. Please make contributions because we also have parliamentary diplomacy. As Members of Parliament, you are primary ambassadors for this country everywhere you go. Take interest and see what you can do.

Hon. Members, as you are aware, the election of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC) is scheduled to take place on Saturday, 15th February 2025, at the AU Headquarters in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Kenya has fronted a candidate in the person of the Rt. Hon. Raila A. Odinga, EGH, former Prime Minister of the Republic of Kenya. From the onset, I take this opportunity to wish the Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga success in the election. I have previously worked with Hon. Raila Odinga, both here in Parliament as well as in Cabinet over the last two decades and I am convinced that in him Africa will have a great and visionary leader as we gear up to the actualisation of the African Union Agenda 2063. Certainly, a win for Hon. Raila Odinga will be a win not only for the country and Africa but also for the larger international fraternity, given his proven track record on human rights, democracy, and integration. As the National Assembly, following a request from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, we have a delegation of four Members travelling to Addis Ababa in solidarity with the Kenya candidate. The Delegation is being led by the Chairperson of the Departmental Committee on Defence, Intelligence & Foreign Relations, Hon. Nelson Koech, CBS. Others include: 1. Hon. Haika Mizighi, CBS, the Chairperson, Diaspora Affairs & Migrant Workers Committee; 2. Hon. Maj. (Rtd) Abdullahi Bashir Sheikh, Vice-Chairperson Departmental Committee on Defence, Intelligence & Foreign Relations; and, 3. Hon. Millie Odhiambo, CBS, the Minority Party Whip, who joins the team in her capacity as a Member of the Departmental Committee on Defence, Intelligence & Foreign Relations I am also aware that other Members of the National Assembly will be travelling to Addis Ababa as part of the leadership and citizens of the country in solidarity with and support of the candidature of Hon. Raila Odinga. Indeed, in line with the provisions of the Standing Orders, I have received around 40 notifications from Members intending to attend the activity. For clarity, these Members will be travelling in their private capacities as citizens and leaders and, therefore, will be self-sponsored. We laud them for that patriotic duty. It is important to note that it is not unusual for citizens of a country, including Members of Parliament, to sponsor themselves to such high-level international fora. Hon. Members, I say so because you have seen the usual barrage against Parliament that it has sent 100 Members to Addis Ababa. We can even all go if we can sponsor ourselves. However, Parliament does not have the resources to sponsor 100 Members. Let us give some foot-thumping to those who have bought their tickets and gone to Addis Ababa.

Addis Ababa is one of the most expensive cities in Africa. An average hotel costs $400- $500 a night. Those Members who have sponsored themselves have done a patriotic duty. We The electronic version of the Official Hansard Report is for information purposesonly. A certified version of this Report can be obtained from the Hansard Editor.

wish our candidate success in the forthcoming elections. For the record, Hon. Raila Odinga and I came to this Parliament for the first time on the same day.

Deputy Leader of the Majority Party

Hon. Speaker, I beg to lay the following Papers on the Table: The electronic version of the Official Hansard Report is for information purposesonly. A certified version of this Report can be obtained from the Hansard Editor.

1. The 2025 Budget Policy Statement (BPS)—I would like Members to note that this BPS is late. 2. The 2025 Medium-Term Debt Management Strategy. 3. Report of the Auditor-General on National Government Ministries, Departments and Agencies for the Financial Year 2023/2024. 4. Report of the Auditor-General on National Government Funds for the Financial Year 2023/2024. 5. Sessional Paper No. 1 of 2025 on the Foreign Policy of the Republic of Kenya— Hon. Speaker, you read a Message concerning this one. 6. Legal Notice No. 5 of 2024 relating to the Civil Aviation (Aircraft Accident and Incident Investigation) Regulations and the Explanatory Memorandum from the Ministry of Roads and Transport. 7. First Quarter National Government Budget Implementation Review Report for the Financial Year 2024/25 from the Office of Controller of Budget. 8. National Governments Constituencies Development Fund Board Report for the Second Quarter of 2024/25 Financial Year. 9. Report to Parliament on all New Loans contracted by the Government from 1st September 2024 to 31st December 2024—this is a significant document, and I urge Members to look at it. 10. Reports of the Auditor-General and Financial Statements for the year ended 30th June 2024 and the certificates therein in respect of: (a) Kenya School of TVET; (b) Parliamentary Service Commission; (c) Parliamentary Joint Services; (d) State Corporations Appeal Tribunal; (e) Kenya Institute of Supplies Examinations Board (KISEB); (f) Privatization Authority Mortgage and Car Loan Scheme Fund; (g) National Irrigation Authority; (h) Kenya Slum Upgrading Low-Cost Housing and Infrastructure Trust (i) Fund; (j) Business Registration Service; (k) Council of Legal Education; (l) Office of the Registrar of Political Parties; (m) Kenya National Commission on Human Rights; and, (n) Competition Authority of Kenya; I beg to lay these significant Papers and urge Members to look at them. I thank you, Hon. Speaker.

Thank you, Hon. Owen. The Sessional Paper No. 1 of 2025 directly goes to the Departmental Committee on Defence, Intelligence and Foreign Relations. The Legal Notice No. 5 of 2024 goes to the Committee on Delegated Legislation. The Report to Parliament on all New Loans contracted by the Government from 1st September 2024 to 31st December 2024 is referred to the Public Debt and Privatization Committee. Hon. Members, before we call the next Order, allow me to acknowledge the following institutions in the Public Gallery: 1. Kenya Institute of Management from Starehe Constituency, Nairobi; 2. Birithia Girls High School from Othaya, Nyeri; and, 3. Maranda High School from Bondo, Siaya. On my behalf and that of the whole House, we welcome the students and their teachers to the House of Parliament. I encourage them to feel free while within our premises. Next Order. The electronic version of the Official Hansard Report is for information purposesonly. A certified version of this Report can be obtained from the Hansard Editor.

Thank you very much, Hon. Speaker. I beg to move the Procedural Motion on the Limitation of Debate.

No. We are still on Statements.

I do not have a Question.

Do you have your usual leadership Statement on Thursdays regarding the business of the week and the following week?

Okay, I got it.

Sorry, Hon. Speaker, for the mix-up. I have the first Statement by the Leader of the Majority Party for this Session.

Pursuant to the provisions of Standing Order 44(2)(a), I rise to give the following Statement on behalf of the House Business Committee, which met on Wednesday, 12th February 2025, to prioritise business for consideration during the week. From the onset, allow me to welcome Members back from the long recess. I trust that they are well rested. As we recollect and appreciate what has been achieved, I wish to point out that this Session marks the mid-term of the 13th Parliament. As we embark on the business ahead of us, we still have a significant number of legislative proposals, Bills, and other parliamentary business that most certainly need our keen attention and prioritisation. Therefore, the collective effort of every Member and every Committee is critical for the realisation of the constitutional mandate bestowed upon us by the people of Kenya. Hon. Speaker, with regard to business scheduled for Tuesday next week, the House will consider the following Government and Individual Members’ Bills at Second Reading, some of which are listed in today’s Order Paper: 1. The Equalisation Fund (Administration) Bill (Senate Bill No. 14 of 2023); 2. The Political Parties (Amendment) Bill, 2022; 3. The Insurance Professionals Bill, 2024; 4. The Fisheries Management and Development Bill, 2023; 5. The Culture Bill, 2024; 6. The Public Finance Management (Amendment) (No.2) Bill, 2024; 7. The Institute of Social Work Professionals Bill, 2023; 8. The Gold Processing Bill, 2023; 9. The National Police Service Commission (Amendment) Bill, 2024; and, 10. The Parliamentary Powers and Privileges (Amendment) Bill (Senate Bill No. 37 of 2023). Additionally, debate will also be undertaken on the Motion on Reconstitution of other lapsed committees and Ratification of the Agreement for the Establishment of the Africa Finance Corporation. The Speaker read out the list of committees that have lapsed. Members will note that there are Agreements pending consideration by the House, including the Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies. Therefore, I urge Committees to expedite consideration and conclude on any other urgent business pending before them. In addition, there are a number of businesses that include Motions on committee reports whose Notices of Motion require to be re-introduced. I call upon all Members and Chairpersons of Committees to urgently give Notices of Motion to enable processing. Regarding the attendance of Cabinet Secretaries to answer questions from Members, I wish to inform the House that arrangements are ongoing. Cabinet Secretaries are expected to The electronic version of the Official Hansard Report is for information purposesonly. A certified version of this Report can be obtained from the Hansard Editor.

start appearing in plenary from Wednesday, 26th February 2025. Members are encouraged to be present to ask their Questions as well as any supplementary questions they may have. Having said that, Members will recall that during the last week of January, the National Assembly undertook a retreat for all Members of the House to deliberate various matters of concern. Among the key resolutions made during the retreat was the operationalisation of the contributory Post-Service Medical Scheme for Members of Parliament. As at today, one hundred and two (102) Members have signed up for the Scheme. The House Business Committee commends the Members for their commitment and encourages Members to register as well. Finally, the House Business Committee will reconvene on Tuesday, 18th February 2025, to schedule business for the rest of that week. I now wish to lay this Statement on the Table of the House.

Hon. Lydia Haika, CBS.

Asante sana Mhe. Spika, kwa kunipatia fursa hii. Kwanza, ni kweli tuko safarini kuenda kule Addis Ababa; tutaondoka kesho asubuhi. Tunaomba heri zote katika safari iliyo mbele yetu. Sasa hivi, ningependa kutoa ujumbe huu wa rambirambi kwa hayati Leonard Mambo Mbotela. Kwa mujibu wa Kanuni 43(1), nasimama kumuomboleza na kusherehekea maisha yake Mzee Leonard Mambo Mbotela, aliyeaga dunia tarehe 7 Februari 2025. Marehemu Mbotela alikuwa mwanahabari tajika. Uanahabari wake ulikuwa kielelezo cha ubora, uweledi, na uadilifu kwa vizazi vingi vya watangazaji wa habari katika kanda ya Afrika Mashariki. Mhe.Spika, tangu akiwa mdogo, marehemu Mambo Mbotela alionyesha shauku kubwa katika nyanja ya utangazaji. Itakumbukwa kwamba mara nyingi, angebuni na kushikilia chupa kama kipaza sauti na kuiga kwa shauku wasomaji wa habari na wachambuzi wa michezo wa Huduma ya Utangazaji ya Afrika (ABS). Mtindo huu ulikuwa dhihirisho la mapema kwamba marehemu Mambo Mbotela alikuwa na talanta ya utangazaji. Hicho kilikuwa ni kiashiria cha uwezo wa kuwa mtangazaji atakayebobea akikomaa. Mnamo mwaka wa 1964, ndoto za marehemu Mambo Mbotela kujitosa na kubobea katika ulingo wa utangazaji zilianza kutimia alipojiunga na Shirika la utangazaji la Sauti ya Kenya, almaarufu Voice of Kenya (VOK), ambalo sasa linajulikana kama Shirika la Utangazaji la Kenya (KBC). Umaarufu wa marehemu Mambo Mbotela katika fani ya utangazaji ulionekana mara tu alipojiunga na Shirika la VOK. Uweledi wake na sauti yake ya kipekee vilimpa ushawishi katika uwanja wa utangazaji, ikiwemo matangazo ya matukio ya kihistoria katika taifa la Kenya. Marehemu Mambo Mbotela atakumbukwa kwa ugwiji wake wa kipekee katika lugha ya Kiswahili na kwa ujuzi alioutumia kwa ustadi kupitia kipindi chake cha redio cha Kiswahili kilichojulikana kama Je, Huu ni Ungwana? Kupitia kipindi hicho, marehemu Mambo Mbotela aliwamulika viongozi na raia kwa matendo yaliyokiuka maadili ya kijamii, kuwakosoa na kuwahitaji wawajibike. Zaidi ya hayo, ucheshi na ufahamu wake katika kutangaza m’bashara mchezo wa kandanda na sikukuu za kitaifa ulivutia sana wasikilizaji kote nchini, na kuimarisha hadhi yake katika utangazaji kama sauti ya kitaifa. Alikuwa shujaa aliyeaminika katika nchi yetu ya Kenya. Nikimalizia, Mhe. Spika, natoa pole zangu za dhati kwa familia, marafiki na taifa lote nzima kwa ujumla kwa kumpoteza mtangazaji huyu maarufu, Mzee Leonard Mambo Mbotela. Kujitolea kwake katika utumishi wa umma, uweledi na uadilifu katika kazi utabaki kuwa The electronic version of the Official Hansard Report is for information purposesonly. A certified version of this Report can be obtained from the Hansard Editor.

mfano bora sio tu kwa wanahabari, bali pia kwa Wakenya kwa ujumla. Tunamuombea apumzike kwa amani. Vilevile, tunaendelea kuipatia familia na hata viongozi wote pole.

Asante sana Mhe. Spika.

Asante sana, Mhe. Haika. Yes, Hon. Omboko Milemba.

Thank you Hon. Speaker. Ingawa

First, I thank Hon. Haika for eulogising Mr Leonard Mambo Mbotela. On my behalf and the people of Emuhaya Constituency, I send my condolences to the family, relatives and the people of Leonard Mambo Mbotela. He was a great person in the media at his peak in the 1980s. Mr Leonard Mambo Mbotela was an icon in this country, and this Statement has come on time. He is remembered for ensuring that Kenyans knew the football results of matches because there were no televisions, and not everybody had a radio then. We would gather around a home where one person had a radio, and hear how football was going on. Some of the best names he mentioned in his football commentaries were 'controller' Murila, Bobby Ogolla, Sekatawa and Serewangi of Uganda; Peter Tino of Tanzania and other players who were celebrities during those days, including Zamoyoni Mogella. Secondly, we can never forget Leonard Mambo, because in 1982, when the coup occurred, we woke up in the morning, and this time, it was not about football. He had this to say, "Serikali yetu iko mikononi mwa jeshi letu, na polisi wote wakae kama raia ." That was the day we knew police could be ordered to be raia . We celebrate this icon. May God rest his soul in the best place. Thank you, Hon. Speaker.

Hon. Katana.

Asante Mhe. Spika. Najiunga na wenzangu kumwomboleza mwandishi shupavu, Leonard Mambo Mbotela. Bwana Mbotela alikuwa kiungo muhimu na kielelezo bora kwa waandishi wa habari, nikiwa mmoja wao. Aliinua vipaji vingi sana vya waandishi, na uboreshaji wa uandishi katika nchi hii. Ingekuwa vyema kama watu wote ambao wametoa mchango mkubwa katika taifa hili kwa usanii na pia waandishi waweze kukumbukwa kabla hawajafa. Leonard Mambo Mbotela alikuwa mtangazaji maarufu na pia mwendeshaji vipindi katika redio ambavyo vimeelimisha watu wengi, kikiwemo kipindi chake cha Je, Huu niUngwana? Ninaiombea roho yake ilale mahali pema peponi. Pia naiombea familia yake iwe na subra wakati huu wa maombolezi. Asante sana, Mhe. Spika.

Hon. Wangari.

Asante sana Mhe. Spika. Hata mimi nampa hongera Mhe. Haika Mizighi kwa kuleta habari ya kifo cha mwendazake, Leonard Mambo Mbotela. Tukisoma historia, tunajua kuwa Mambo Mbotela hakuwa tu Mkenya. Babu ya babu yake alikuwa ametekwa nyara kule Malawi, ndio wakajipata wamefika kule mwambao. Kwa hivyo, alikua na mizizi sio tu ya Kenya, bali ya Afrika nzima. Hatuwezi kusoma historia ya majaribio ya mapinduzi ya Serikali ya 1982 bila ya kumkumbuka Leonard Mambo Mbotela. Alisomea kule Kitui na kuanza kazi kule Nakuru kama mfanyakazi wa kikundi cha Standard, kabla ya kuenda katika Voice of Kenya (VoK). Yuko na historia nzuri ya zaidi ya miaka hamsini katika kuwapasha habari Wakenya, dunia nzima na Afrika ya Mashariki. Kwa hivyo, tunamuombea dua kwa Mungu amlaze mahali pema na aweze kupumzika kwa amani. Kwa jamaa na marafiki, tunawaombea faraja.

Hon. Rachael Nyamai. The electronic version of the Official Hansard Report is for information purposesonly. A certified version of this Report can be obtained from the Hansard Editor.

Asante Mhe. Spika kwa kunipatia fursa hii. Namshukuru Mhe. Haika kwa Kiswahili kizuri sana cha Pwani. Ametukumbusha maisha ya Leonard Mambo Mbotela. Najiunga na wenzangu kumuomba Mungu aipatie familia yake fadhila katika wakati huu mgumu.

Mhe. Spika, fadhili.

Namkumbuka Mambo Mbotela nilipokuwa mdogo. Wakati huo, redio ilikuwa ni moja, na kwetu tulikuwa wengi sana. Kwa hivyo, tulikuwa tunazunguka hiyo redio tukisikiliza kipindi chake cha Je, Huu ni Ungwana? Alikuwa mcheshi na alifundisha jamii. Pia alifanya kazi nyingi sana katika nchi ya Kenya. Ningependa kukumbuka maneno ambayo Leonard Mambo Mbotela alisema wakati alikuwa amezeeka na amefanya kazi nyingi. Aliuliza kama inawezekana kazi aliyoifanya ihifadhiwe katika museum yetu. Mhe Spika, kama mkubwa wetu katika Bunge, na kupitia Kamati yetu ya habari na mawasiliano, naomba tuzingatie jambo hili na tulipatie uzito ili tuhifadhi kazi ambayo aliifanya ili iwasomeshe watu wengine. Asante sana Mhe. Spika.

Major (Rtd) Raso.

Thank you very much, Hon. Speaker. I join Kenyans, Hon. Haika, and many others in sending my tribute and condolences for the demise of a distinguished Kenyan. He was a legend and a man who will live through the history of broadcasting and media. Leonard Mambo Mbotela was a household name. The media has walked a journey, looking at it today. Many journalists lived in abject poverty, and many did not know about their lives and dwellings. However, they contributed to the Kenya we have today in terms of patriotism and loyalty. They placed Kenya on the world map. Whenever Leonard Mambo Mbotela was reading the news on VoK, it meant something serious was coming up. That is why, on 1st August 1982, the coup plotters used him to broadcast to Kenyans that there was a coup. For that reason, the demise of people like Mambo Mbotela tells us something about our country. Has something been written about this man? Is there an archive that young Kenyans, like those sitting in the Public Gallery, can refer to, to remember such a man when they grow up? He was an icon because many young people in the media industry were under his tutelage and transitioned to what they are today. We pray that his soul rests in eternal peace and that the Almighty God gives solace to his family. Thank you, Hon. Speaker.

Thank you. Commissioner Makau.

Thank you, Hon. Speaker, for giving me this chance. I also thank Hon. Haika, Member for Taita Taveta County, for making her Statement on the Floor of the House. This is an opportunity for Members to pass their condolences to the family of the hero of media houses, especially the then Voice of Kenya (VoK). Kenyans will remember Leonard Mambo Mbotela as a man who brought happiness to households broadcasting football games during his tenure in the media. He lit up homes with happiness through his mastery of the Swahili language. His role as a football commentator made every Kenyan like the game. The late Leonard Mambo Mbotela’s character was identified by the Kenya Air Force boys, led by the late Mr Hezekiah Ochuka, who captured The electronic version of the Official Hansard Report is for information purposesonly. A certified version of this Report can be obtained from the Hansard Editor.

him and took him to VoK to inform Kenyans that the late President Moi’s Government had been overthrown. Today, I am also a very unhappy person. When the late Leonard Mambo Mbotela’s family informed us that he would be interred at Lang’ata Cemetery, Kenyans were in shock. Subsequently, we learnt that he was not of Kenyan descent but Malawian. As a nation, we should honour such a man and give him a send-off that befits a hero of his nature. The Government of Kenya should cater for all the funeral expenses. It is also important to note that even the family does not have a place to lay him to rest. This nation has always honoured heroes. Therefore, Leonard Mambo Mbotela must be accorded the same honour. In the same breath, when I walked in, I found some Members registering to travel to Addis Ababa. It is important for Kenyans to know that if Hon. Raila Odinga wins the African Union Commission (AUC) Chairperson position, it is not about the Broad-Based Government but Kenya. Hon. Speaker, I know you are a generous man. I pray that you accord some of us, who are not in the Broad-Based Government, a chance to go to Addis Ababa so that we...

Order, Hon. Makau. You are out of order. What is going on in Addis Ababa has nothing to do with the death of Mr Leonard Mambo.

Hon. Speaker, I am talking about heroes. We are celebrating one, Hon. Amolo Raila Odinga, as a living hero. Our support for him shows our patriotism. We do not have to wait for heroes to die, so we celebrate them. That is why I brought up the issue of Hon. Raila Odinga. Nevertheless, allow me to join other Members in passing condolences to the family of the late Leonard Mambo Mbotela. May his soul rest in eternal peace. Thank you, Hon. Speaker.

Thank you. We will end up there on the tributes to the late Leonard Mambo. I will also invite Hon. Kiborek Ruben to make a Statement. After that, we will observe a minute of silence for both.

I had not noticed you, but let Hon. Kiborek speak.

Thank you, Hon. Speaker. Pursuant to Standing Order 259D (2), I rise to pay tribute to a great man, a former Member of Parliament for South Baringo – the current Mogotio and Eldama Ravine constituencies – Hon. Edward Cherutich Kiptanui. He transitioned from this world on Tuesday, 28th January 2025, after a short illness. We mourn his departure but also celebrate a life well-lived, dedicated to service leadership and the betterment of our nation. Born on 15th February 1934 in Kisanana, Mogotio Constituency, Baringo County, Hon. Kiptanui was the first-born son of the late Assistant Chief Kimulwo Kiptanui and Talai Kimulwo. From an early age, he displayed a thirst for knowledge and a determination to uplift those around him. His educational journey took him from Kisanana to Tenges Secondary School and later to Kabarnet Intermediate School, where he laid the foundation for his life- long dedication to service and leadership. Driven by a passion for education, Hon. Kiptanui trained as a teacher at Kijabe Teachers Training College, eventually rising to Principal at Emining Full Primary School. Even in his role as a teacher, he demonstrated an unwavering commitment to community development. This elevated him to elective politics as the County Council Representative for the Central Rift. The electronic version of the Official Hansard Report is for information purposesonly. A certified version of this Report can be obtained from the Hansard Editor.

His leadership qualities soon led him into national service. In 1966, he was nominated as a Member of Parliament. Though his journey in elective politics faced challenges, he remained resilient, ultimately winning the larger Baringo South parliamentary seat in 1974. For 15 years, from 1974 to 1988, Hon. Kiptanui served his constituents with integrity and vision. His dedication and hard work earned him the trust of the late President Daniel Arap Moi, who appointed him Assistant Minister for Water Development from 1979 to 1988. During this period, he spearheaded numerous empowerment initiatives, championing access to education, water resources, employment opportunities and economic development for his people. Even after his tenure in Parliament, his service to the nation did not wane. In 1991, he was appointed Chairman of the National Water Corporation, a position he held for a decade. His leadership in this role further reinforced his legacy as a champion of public welfare and sustainable development. On behalf of this House, I extend my deepest sincere condolences to the family, friends, and community of Hon. Edward Cherutich Kiptanui. He was a great man. I am very proud to stand on the shoulders of those giants who came before me in Mogotio Constituency and Baringo County at large. He was a great leader in my community, this nation, and our great Baringo County. He served with dedication, integrity and passion. He transformed the lives of our people and the nation at large. We are immensely proud of him and the legacy that he has left behind. The people of Mogotio Constituency and the larger Baringo County are proud of him. May his soul rest in eternal peace. Thank you, Hon. Speaker, for granting me this honour.

Thank you, Hon. Kiborek. Hon. Sirma.

Thank you, Hon. Speaker, for giving me the opportunity to also condole with the family of our late departed Member of Parliament, Hon. Edward Cherutich Kiptanui. He was a great man. He went through many political storms within Baringo County, which was a hotbed of politics at that time. I recall when I was in Form 4, we decided to register for voter cards and even went ahead to register for Identification Cards (IDs) in advance. This is because my father believed in Hon. Edward Kiptanui. I voted for him twice, in 1979 and 1984. The third time, due to the political storm, he was removed from power by the Kenya African National Union (KANU) mandarins at that time. However, in my opinion, there was no election in this country in 1988. The mlolongo ‘nonsense’ introduced then led to Hon. Kiptanui's removal from power. The people of Mogotio and Eldama Ravine constituencies still remember him. As Members of Parliament from Baringo, together with the Member for Rongai, his neighbour, we have jointly visited his family.

Hon. Speaker, we also need to give him a heroic send-off as a former Member of Parliament who served for four terms. He came here as a Nominated Member after being beaten by Hon. Babu Wood in Nakuru North Constituency. He subsequently relocated to Baringo South Constituency, where he won three consecutive terms. He was popular there. He was a man of the people. Hon. Speaker, you will remember that you were not being paid a salary when you came to Parliament then. However, he managed because he was a good man who was quite endowed. He helped us in all the areas he could. He enabled children to go to school. He even built schools even though the National Government Constituencies Development Fund (NG-CDF) did not exist then. He was a great man. May his soul rest in eternal peace.

We will end there with the tributes. Hon. Members, I want to bring that matter to a close because we have much business to consider.

The electronic version of the Official Hansard Report is for information purposesonly. A certified version of this Report can be obtained from the Hansard Editor.

Yes, Hon. Sabina, do you want to say something about Hon. Kiptanui?

No, Hon. Speaker. I want to give my tribute to Mr. Leonard Mambo Mbotela.

Okay.

Thank you, Hon. Speaker, for giving me this opportunity. I am a veteran journalist who happened to have worked with the late Leonard Mambo Mbotela, one of our senior fathers, in broadcasting. He inspired a majority of us when we were young. I was very proud to work closely with him when I joined the Kenya Broadcasting Corporation (KBC). He was a good mentor and a man who stood with the government during the coup d’état. He offered himself to serve the country. Unfortunately, most senior broadcasting personalities have a difficult life, especially in their old age. I urge the Departmental Committee on Communication, Information and Innovation, especially Hon. Kiarie, whom I know is here, to ensure that, even as we nurture talents amongst our youths, we see how we can care for the elderly. The elderly media personalities entertained us and offered to serve the country when the salaries at KBC were very low. The salaries being paid to journalists working at KBC are still little. The KBC has the best talents. Therefore, we need to allocate more money to KBC. They develop talents amongst young broadcasters, who end up being poached by other media houses. Since KBC serves as a national training ground, I urge the Departmental Committee on Communication, Information and Innovation to relook at the perks given to staff members there. The staff members at KBC should also have a pension scheme because they earn very little. A majority of the staff do not serve on permanent and pensionable terms. They are called “artists”. They work on a casual basis. Most of them have worked there for 20 to 30 years, but not on a permanent and pensionable basis. That means they may not have saved anything for their old age. They should have a pension scheme. They should be supported and celebrated by the government. They should be awarded Head of State Commendations and recognition because the entertainment and therapy they give in the form of humour helps many people, especially when everybody seems to be upset about everything and nothing. Many things are happening within the country, and the stress levels are high. They work as therapists by bringing us humour and happiness. They also wake up in the morning to inform us of what is happening in the country. Some of them are comedians. We need to take good care of them because they also take good care of our hearts. May the soul of Leonard Mambo Mbotela rest in peace. I hope the government will support his family.

Hon. Members, we will end there with the tributes. I also knew Mr Leonard Mambo Mbotela as an undergraduate student at the University of Nairobi when we used to run a programme at the Voice of Kenya (VOK) known as Books and Bookmen . We would read books and then discuss them on the radio with Kenyans. We used to run the programme with the Late Prof Chris Wanjala, Prof Okot P'Bitek and a few other professors. In 1982, I represented, in court, the coup d’état plotters who overthrew the Government of President Moi for two hours. Mr Lenard Mambo Mbotela was a key witness in the case against Senior Private Hezekiah Ochuka and Senior Private Okumu, who were my clients. You could feel his patriotism when he represented the country. In honour of the Late Hon. Kiptanui and Mr Leonard Mambo Mbotela, we will be upstanding for a minute of silence.

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May their souls rest in eternal peace. Amen. For you, Hon. Members and leaders like Hon. Owen Baya, this is when you should reflect and realise that the country needs a Hero’s Corner to bury people like Mr Leonard Mambo Mbotela. It is disheartening to hear that we will bury Mr Leonard Mambo Mbotela at Lang’ata Cemetery. Probably, his grave will be on top of another grave, knowing how crowded the place is. Next Order.

Order, Hon. Members. I direct that before we go to the Procedural Motions, we should dispose of all the Bills at the First Reading Stage. Therefore, Clerks-at-the-Table, call out Orders 20 to 25 before we come back to Order 8.

On a point of order, Hon. Speaker.

Yes, Hon. Jared Okello. What is your point order? Give the microphone to Hon. Jared Okello.

Thank you very much, Hon. Speaker. There is an issue on which I need your direction. This matter has been brought to the attention of this House intermittently. The last time the matter was raised here, which I believe was six months ago, you gave direction. This relates to the matter of hardship allowance. Following your direction, a multi-agency team that the national government put together through various agencies undertook a survey across the country, particularly on areas that were touched by the agitation for inclusion in the hardship allowance programme. I am aware that a report was presented to the Ministry of Public Service, Performance and Delivery Management. However, as is characteristic of this country, very good reports that ought to infuse necessary changes end up gathering dust in public offices. Up to now, the report has neither been presented to Parliament – the organ that necessitated inquiry into the matter through your direction – nor to the Ministry of the National Treasury and Economic Planning for direction. It is a matter that involves the allocation of more funds to address the challenges that affect our people serving in hardship areas. Therefore, I need your intervention so that the Ministry of Public Service, Performance and Delivery can do what is necessary to bring the report to Parliament for onward transmission to the National Treasury for implementation so that the areas inadvertently excluded from this scheme can be incorporated. As you know, public servants in many areas have been disenfranchised. We have spoken about this matter many times. For example, my constituency is domiciled between Muhoroni and Nyakach, both of which benefit from the hardship allowance scheme. Immediately teachers are posted to schools in Nyando Constituency, they apply to be transferred to schools in Muhoroni and Nyakach constituencies because of this incentive. Hon. Speaker, the report is out and available. Please direct us to the necessary channels that ought to be followed to ensure that it is implemented. I thank you for giving me the opportunity to contribute.

Thank you, Hon. Jared. Hon. Owen Baya, can you follow up on that matter and report to the House next week on Wednesday afternoon? The electronic version of the Official Hansard Report is for information purposesonly. A certified version of this Report can be obtained from the Hansard Editor.

All right, thank you very much.

As Hon. Jared Okello rightly put it, this matter was raised here in the last Session not less than three or four times.

Yes, Hon. Speaker.

On a point of order, Hon. Speaker.

Yes, Hon. Ruku. Give him the microphone. Is it on the same issue or something different?

It is on a similar issue.

Go ahead.

STATUS REPORT ON LAST RESPECT EXPENSES/DEATH GRATUITY PAYMENTS TO NHIF & PUBLIC SERVICE REMUNERATION SCHEME BENEFICIARIES

Hon. Speaker, before we took a break for recess, you gave instructions that the first thing which should be done when we come back is for the Chairman of the Departmental Committee on Health to report on the status of the last expense and death gratuity payment to the survivors and beneficiaries of the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) and Public Service Remuneration Scheme. I brought up this matter about three times. The Departmental Committee on Health failed to give a statement as far as this issue is concerned. You gave a directive that when we come back, the first thing for the Chairman would be to report on this matter. From the look of things, we are starting business without the Chairman of the Departmental Committee on Health giving the status on this issue.

Well noted. Hon. Owen Baya, note that and see if the matter can be resolved by Thursday next week.

I am much obliged, Hon. Speaker.

On a point of order, Hon. Speaker.

Yes, Hon. CNN, what is it? Is it on the same hardship issue?

Yes, it is, Hon. Speaker. However, I am not sure whether Hon. Owen Baya is aware of what you requested him to do, even though he has clarified that he got what he is supposed to follow up on. Thank you, Hon. Speaker.

From where you are seated, do you have the capacity to know whether he is understanding or not? Yes, Hon. Owen.

Hon. Speaker, I have immense capacity. Hon. CNN failed to take off a plane even after being trained for eight years as a pilot. So, we can continue to doubt his ability as a failed pilot. I have heard and we will ensure that the House is well informed. I have been informed that the reports from Hon. Pukose are ready.

I am aware.

Yes, you are aware.

I have directed that they will be tabled on Tuesday.

We will ensure they are tabled in the House on that day. We will also get the report that Hon. Jared requested to ensure that the promises this House had made are fulfilled. I am much obliged, Hon. Speaker.

Assure Hon. CNN that you are alert. The electronic version of the Official Hansard Report is for information purposesonly. A certified version of this Report can be obtained from the Hansard Editor.

Hon. CNN, I am usually very alert. I can multitask.

Clerk-at-the-Table, read out the next Order.

Hon. Members, we are now going back to Order 8.

Hon. Speaker, I beg to move the following Motion: THAT, pursuant to the provisions of Standing Order 97(1), this House orders that each speech in a debate on Bills sponsored by a committee, the Leader of the Majority Party or the Leader of the Minority Party be limited as follows: A maximum of 45 minutes for the Mover, in moving and 15 minutes in replying, a maximum of 30 minutes for the Chairperson of the relevant committee (if the Bill is not sponsored by the relevant committee), and a maximum of 10 minutes for any other Member speaking, except the Leader of the Majority Party and the Leader of the Minority Party, who shall be limited to a maximum of 15 minutes each (if the Bill is not sponsored by either of them); and that priority in speaking be accorded to the Leader of the Majority Party, the Leader of the Minority Party and the Chairperson of the relevant Departmental Committee, in that order. The electronic version of the Official Hansard Report is for information purposesonly. A certified version of this Report can be obtained from the Hansard Editor.

I request the Whip of the Majority Party, Hon. Silvanus Maiyengo Osoro, to second.

Hon. Osoro.

Thank you very much, Hon. Speaker. Firstly, I want to correct Hon. Owen Baya that I am not Hon. Majengo.

What is your name?

He referred to me as Hon. Majengo Osoro, but my surname is Onyiego.

What the Deputy Leader of the Majority Party has said is largely the tradition of this House as far as Motions and Bills are concerned. We need to give the mover of the Bill adequate time to explain themself – that is 45 minutes, as he has put it – and also give preference to the leadership of the House, including the Leader of the Majority Party and Leader of the Minority Party, to air their views. For that reason, I beg to second.

Put the Question.

The mood of the House is to put the Question.

Next Order.

Thank you very much, Hon. Deputy Speaker. I wish the Members who are leaving would stay because this is very important.

Whip of the Majority Party, whip the Members to come back because we need them. It is a very important Motion. You are failing at your job.

Yes. This is a very important Procedural Motion for Members because we limit their time at this level. Hon. Deputy Speaker, I beg to move the following Procedural Motion: THAT, pursuant to the provisions of Standing Order 97(1), this House orders that each speech in a debate on Bills not sponsored by a Committee, the Leader of the Majority Party or the Leader of the Minority Party be limited as follows: A maximum of three hours and 30 minutes, with not more than 30 minutes for the Mover, in moving and 10 minutes in replying, a maximum of 30 minutes for the Chairperson of the relevant Committee and a maximum of 10 minutes for any other Member speaking, except the Leader of the Majority Party and the Leader of the Minority Party, who shall be limited to a maximum of 15 minutes each; and that priority in speaking be accorded to the Leader of the The electronic version of the Official Hansard Report is for information purposesonly. A certified version of this Report can be obtained from the Hansard Editor.

Majority Party, the Leader of the Minority Party and the Chairperson of the relevant Departmental Committee, in that order.

I request the Hon. Member for Nandi County, Hon. Muge to second this Motion.

Thank you, Hon. Deputy Speaker. I rise to second the Motion on Limitation of Debate on Individual Members' Bills. Since it appeared on the Order Paper, I have been keen enough to ask the Deputy Leader of the Majority Party why there is a huge difference between the Bills sponsored by the Government and the individual Motions and Bills. This is where efficiency in terms of the use of time will be measured, especially on the Bills sponsored by Members. I support this because it will ensure that the short period given for the prosecution of Private Members' Bills is utilised and shared equally so that we can move more Motions and Bills sponsored by private Members. This is a very progressive provision. Frankly speaking, three hours is adequate for someone who knows what they want, the intention and has their thoughts together to move their Motion. I have seen the ultimate importance of the leadership of the House. It is interesting that the Leaders of the Majority and Minority Parties and the Committee Chairpersons still get more time than anyone else, even in Private Members' sponsored Bills. When I grow older, I must ensure that I am also a Leader of the Majority Party or a Committee Chairperson to enjoy the ultimate importance of those particular positions. I support this Motion. I ask the Hon. Members to support it so we can have adequate time and share the little time available to move Private Members' Bills in this House. I second.

Next Order.

Hon. Deputy Speaker, I beg to move the following Procedural Motion: THAT, pursuant to the provisions of Standing Order 97(1), this House orders that each speech in a debate on any Motion, including a Special motion be limited in the following manner: A maximum of three hours with not more than 20 minutes for the Mover and 10 minutes for any other Member speaking, except the Leader of the Majority Party and the Leader of the Minority Party, who shall be limited to a maximum of 15 minutes each, and that 10 minutes before the expiry of the time, the Mover shall be called upon to reply; and that priority in speaking be accorded to the Leader of the Majority Party, the Leader of the Minority Party and the Chairperson of the relevant Departmental Committee, in that order.

Hon. Deputy Speaker, this Motion limits time for debates. When one is contributing, they have 10 minutes, but sometimes the mood of the House says three minutes. We, however, give 10 minutes to Members to contribute. I ask my friend, Hon. Clive, to second.

Thank you, Hon. Deputy Speaker. While I second this Motion, I note that the leadership gets sufficient time to explain the Motion and give guidance to this House. Sometimes, it is not necessary for the leadership to utilise the entire 15 minutes speaking on issues that are outside the context of the Motion. We request that the leadership be limited to stick within the content of the Motion so that enough The electronic version of the Official Hansard Report is for information purposesonly. A certified version of this Report can be obtained from the Hansard Editor.

time is allocated to the other Members; rather than them utilising their full time, then the other Members end up being requested to reduce their time to five or three minutes.

With that, I second.

Hon Deputy Speaker, I beg to move the following Procedural Motion: THAT, pursuant to the provisions of Standing Order 97(1), this House orders that each speech in debate on Reports of Audit Committees be limited as follows: A maximum of 60 minutes for the Mover in moving and 30 minutes in replying, and a maximum of 10 minutes for any other Member speaking, except the Leader of the Majority Party and the Leader of the Minority Party, who shall be limited to a maximum of 15 minutes each; and that priority be accorded to the Leader of the Majority Party and the Leader of the Minority Party, in that order.

I request Hon. Jematiah to second.

Hon. Deputy Speaker, I second the Motion.

Thank you.

Put the Question.

I will allow Hon. Keynan to speak for a minute.

Hon. Deputy Speaker, Audit Committees play a very important role in safeguarding the public interest. I request that the House Business Committee fast-track all the pending reports of the Audit Committees because that is the only way to assess whether the public gets value for money. These should not be treated like any other reports because the Office of the Auditor-General audits these entities. Parliament is supposed to act as a neutral arbiter. It should provide an avenue for the audited agencies and the Auditor- General to explain the same so that the public can also understand this. I am sure my friend, Hon. Kimani Ichung'wah, is also hearing this, and my plea is for us to fast-track this process. The Audit Committees should be given proper attention so taxpayers get value for money. The funds that have been appropriated and how they have been used should be seen in the audit report. I also request the Committee Chairpersons and Members to take this matter seriously because the public perception of Parliament and the incidences of corruption is so high. We need to change this so that Kenyans are familiar with the roles played by the Office of the Auditor-General, Audit Committees, and Parliament. They should ultimately accept that Parliament is there for their well-being. I support the Motion.

Hon. Oundo, proceed.

Hon. Deputy Speaker, thank you for this opportunity. I want to draw the attention of my colleagues and the country to the fact that, with respect to the new Constitution of Kenya 2010, it is required that, within six months after the end of each financial year, audit reports shall be presented to the National Assembly, which The electronic version of the Official Hansard Report is for information purposesonly. A certified version of this Report can be obtained from the Hansard Editor.

shall analyse, prosecute, move, and take appropriate action within three months. There is a recent Court case regarding the Nairobi County Assembly, where the Court had invalidated the findings of the Audit Committee Reports that were passed outside the timelines provided for in the Constitution. I urge Members who are here that, every single time we prosecute these reports, it is important to keep in mind the provisions of the Constitution; otherwise, the work of the National Assembly and the various county assemblies would be an exercise in futility, vanity, and waste of public resources. Thank you, Hon. Deputy Speaker.

Hon Deputy Speaker, I beg to move the following Procedural Motion: THAT, pursuant to the provisions of Standing Order 97(1), this House orders that each speech in a debate on Other Committee Reports, including a Report of a Joint Committee of the Houses of Parliament or any other Report submitted to the House for which limitation of time has not been specified, be limited as follows; a maximum of two and a half hours, with not more than 20 minutes for the Mover in moving and five minutes for any other Member speaking, including the Leader of the Majority Party and the Leader of the Minority Party and the Chairperson of the relevant Committee (if the Committee Report is not moved by the Chairperson of the relevant Committee), and that 10 minutes before the expiry of the time, the Mover shall be called upon to reply; and further that priority in speaking shall be accorded to the Leader of the Majority Party and the Leader of the Minority Party, in that order.

I request Hon. Ngusya, CNN, to second.

Thank you, Hon. Deputy Speaker. Without wasting much time, as this is a Procedural Motion, I second.

Next Order.

I beg to move: THAT, noting that Standing Order 24(6) provides that debate on a Motion on the Address by the President shall be limited to not more than Four Sitting days, and pursuant to the provisions of Standing Order 97(1), this House orders that debate on a Motion on the Address by His Excellency the President under Article 132(1)(a) of the Constitution be limited as follows: A maximum of 30 minutes for the Mover in moving, 20 minutes for the Leader of the Minority Party, and 10 minutes each to the Chairperson of the Departmental Committee on Justice and Legal Affairs to speak on the report submitted under Article 132(1)(c)(i) of the Constitution relating to the realisation of the national values; the Chairperson of the Departmental Committee on Defence, Intelligence and Foreign Relations The electronic version of the Official Hansard Report is for information purposesonly. A certified version of this Report can be obtained from the Hansard Editor.

to speak on the report submitted under Article 132(1)(c)(iii) of the Constitution relating to the progress made in fulfilling the international obligations of the Republic; and the Chairperson of the Departmental Committee on Administration and Internal Security to speak on the report submitted under Article 240(7) of the Constitution relating to the state of the security of the country; and five minutes for any other Member speaking, and that 10 minutes before the expiry of the time, the Mover shall be called upon to reply. Hon. Deputy Speaker, I request Hon. Mwengi Mutuse, Member of Parliament of Kibwezi West, to second.

Before you second, allow me to recognise students before they leave. I recognise the presence of two schools seated in the Public Gallery: 1. St. Patrick's Hill Schools, Kajiado West Constituency, Kajiado County. 2. Maryhill Girls High School, Thika West Constituency, Kiambu County. On behalf of Members of the National Assembly, we wish you pleasant proceedings. Thank you.

I second.

Put the Question.

I beg to move: THAT, pursuant to the provisions of Standing Order 97(1), this House orders that each speech in a debate on any Sessional Paper shall be limited as follows: A maximum of two and a half hours, with not more than 20 minutes for the Mover in moving and five minutes for any other Member speaking, including the Leader of the Majority Party and the Leader of the Minority Party and the Chairperson of the relevant Committee (if the Sessional Paper is not moved by the Chairperson of the relevant Committee), and that 10 minutes before the expiry of the time, the Mover shall be called upon to reply; and further that priority in speaking shall be accorded to the Leader of the Majority Party and the Leader of the Minority Party, in that order. Hon. Deputy Speaker, I request Hon. Jerusha Mong’ina Momanyi, Member of Parliament for Nyamira, to second.

Thank you, Hon. Temporary Speaker. I second.

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(Hon. (Dr) Rachael Nyamai): May I put the Question?

Yes.

(Hon. (Dr) Rachael Nyamai): Next Order. Deputy Leader of the Majority Party, please proceed.

Hon. Temporary Speaker, I beg to move the following Procedural Motion: THAT, pursuant to the provisions of Standing Order 97(1), this House orders that each speech in a debate on reports of constitutional commissions and independent offices be limited as follows: A maximum of four hours, with not more than 30 minutes for the Mover in moving and 10 minutes in replying, a maximum of 30 minutes for the Chairperson of the relevant Committee, and a maximum of 10 minutes for any other Member speaking, except the Leader of the Majority Party and the Leader of the Minority Party who shall be limited to a maximum of 15 minutes each; and that priority be accorded to the Chairperson of the relevant Committee, the Leader of the Majority Party and the Leader of the Minority Party, in that order.

When we have this kind of Motion, it is accorded time as distributed. Since the Member I was targeting to second is not here, I wish to request Hon. Sabina Chege, the Whip of the Jubilee Party, to second.

(Hon. (Dr) Rachael Nyamai): Hon. Sabina Chege, Whip of the Jubilee Party, please proceed.

Thank you, Hon. Temporary Speaker. I second. As the House Business Committee plans on limitation of debate, there are many important private Member’s Bills. I know the Committee tends to prioritise Government Bills, which is okay. So, there are many Bills that need to come to the Floor of the House for consideration because they are very important to this nation.

I second.

(Hon. (Dr) Rachael Nyamai): Thank you very much, Hon. Sabina Chege.

Next Order. Deputy Leader of the Majority Party.

Hon. Temporary Speaker, I beg to move the following Motion: The electronic version of the Official Hansard Report is for information purposesonly. A certified version of this Report can be obtained from the Hansard Editor.

THAT, pursuant to the provisions of Standing Order 97(1), this House orders that each speech in a debate on the Report of the Budget and Appropriations Committee on Budget Estimates contemplated under Standing Orders 239 and 240 be limited as follows— (a) General Supply Debate: A maximum of three sitting days, with 30 minutes for the Mover in moving and 15 minutes in replying; a maximum of fifteen minutes for each Chairperson of Departmental Committee and a maximum of 10 minutes for any other Member speaking, except the Leader of the Majority Party and the Leader of the Minority Party who shall be limited to a maximum of 15 minutes each; and that priority in speaking be accorded to the Leader of the Majority Party, the Leader of the Minority Party and the respective Chairpersons of Departmental Committees in the order that they appear in the Second Schedule to the Standing Orders; and, (b) Committee of Supply: A maximum of six sitting days for the consideration of the proposed allocations to the respective Votes/Programmes in the order specified in the Schedule submitted by the Budget and Appropriations Committee. Hon. Temporary Speaker, we are starting the budget cycle. We laid the BPS on the Table today. It is supposed to trigger the budget cycle. This Procedural Motion, therefore, gives guidance to that debate. People often ask what the Committee of Supply and General Supply Debate are. Sometimes, Members get mixed up. It is important that they acquaint themselves with the two. I request the honourable and almost Senior Counsel, Hon. Chepkonga, to second this.

(Hon. (Dr) Rachael Nyamai): Hon. Chepkonga.

Thank you very much, Hon. Temporary Speaker. I thank Hon. Baya for moving this important Motion. As you can see, I am seated next to ladies who are Members of Parliament. They are preparing for tomorrow. Just a reminder: tomorrow is Valentine's Day. As I second this Motion, the women are giving notice to men to prepare to take them out tomorrow for Valentine’s Day since we will not be sitting. With those remarks, I second.

(Hon. (Dr) Rachael Nyamai): Thank you very much, Hon. Chepkonga, for seconding.

Next Order. Deputy Leader of the Majority Party, please proceed.

Hon. Temporary Speaker, I beg to move the following Procedural Motion: The electronic version of the Official Hansard Report is for information purposesonly. A certified version of this Report can be obtained from the Hansard Editor.

THAT, pursuant to the provisions of Standing Order 97(1), this House orders that each speech in the general debate contemplated under Standing Order 146 (Consideration of Senate amendments to Bills originating in the National Assembly) be limited as follows: A maximum of one hour and thirty minutes, with not more than fifteen minutes (15) for the Mover in moving, fifteen minutes (15) for the Chairperson of the relevant Departmental Committee, and five (5) minutes for any other Member speaking, including the Leader of the Majority Party and the Leader of the Minority Party (if the Bill is not party-sponsored), and that five (5) minutes before the expiry of the time, the Mover shall be called upon to reply; and further that priority in speaking shall be accorded to the Leader of the Majority Party, the Leader of the Minority Party and the Chairperson of the relevant Departmental Committee, in that order. Hon. Temporary Speaker, I would like to request Hon. Muthoni to second.

r (Hon. (Dr) Rachael Nyamai): Hon. Muthoni, please proceed.

Hon. Temporary Speaker, I beg to second the Procedural Motion by the Deputy Leader of the Majority Leader.

Put the Question.

(Hon. (Dr) Rachael Nyamai): Thank you. I will put the Question. I want to give the Senior a chance to take his seat.

(Hon. (Dr) Rachael Nyamai): Deputy Leader of the Majority Party, please proceed.

Hon. Temporary Speaker, I beg to move the following Procedural Motion: THAT, notwithstanding the provisions of Standing Orders 41 and 42 relating to conveying of Messages from the Senate and from the President or the National Executive, Standing Orders 120, 122 and 126 relating to Publication, Procedure upon Publication and First Reading of Bills and Standing Order 210(2) relating to Tabling of Statutory Instruments, this House orders that during the Short and Long Recesses of the Fourth Session – (a) Upon receipt of any Message from the Senate, or upon receipt of any name of a person nominated for appointment to a State or public office from the President or any other office in the National Executive, the Speaker shall forthwith refer such Message to the relevant Committee for consideration, without having to recall the House, and report such fact to the House on resumption; (b) Upon receipt of any Message relating to the Senate’s Amendments to a Bill originating in the National Assembly, the Speaker shall The electronic version of the Official Hansard Report is for information purposesonly. A certified version of this Report can be obtained from the Hansard Editor.

forthwith refer the Schedule of the Senate Amendments to the relevant Committee for consideration pursuant to the provisions of Standing Order 145 (Senate amendments to Bills originating in the National Assembly), and report such fact to the House on resumption; (c) Should a Bill be published during the said period, or a published Bill become due for First Reading, the Speaker shall, upon lapse of at least three days following the publication of the Bill and following a determination that such Bill is of priority, forthwith refer such Bill to the relevant Committee for consideration pursuant to the provisions of Standing Order 127 (Committal of Bills to Committees and public participation ) and cause the Bill to be read a First Time upon its next Sitting and the Second Reading may be taken forthwith, or on such other day as the House Business Committee may determine; (d) Should any statutory instrument be transmitted for tabling before the House during the period, the Speaker shall, following a determination that the statutory instrument is of priority, forthwith refer the statutory instrument to the relevant Committee for consideration and cause the statutory instrument to be tabled in the House upon its next Sitting in accordance with the provisions of Section 11 of the Statutory Instruments Act (No.3 of 2013); and, (e) Should any Paper be transmitted for tabling before the House, the Speaker shall, following a determination that the Paper is of priority, forthwith refer the Paper to the relevant Committee for consideration and cause the Paper to be tabled in the House upon its next Sitting. Hon. Temporary Speaker, all the five above refer to matters that come to the House during recess. This Procedural Motion gives the Speaker the latitude, privilege and power to ensure that he transmits these Businesses to the relevant committees during this time and report to the House when it sits next. I take this opportunity to call upon Hon. General Basil to speak to this Motion and second. Thank you.

Thank you, Hon. Temporary Speaker…

(Hon. (Dr) Rachael Nyamai): I heard General.

Hon. Basil, Member for Yatta.

(Hon. (Dr) Rachael Nyamai): Member for Yatta, please proceed.

I think he wants to promote me

(Hon. (Dr) Rachael Nyamai): Thank you very much, Member for Yatta, Hon. Basil. The electronic version of the Official Hansard Report is for information purposesonly. A certified version of this Report can be obtained from the Hansard Editor.

(Hon. (Dr) Rachael Nyamai): Hon. Members, may I go ahead and put the Question?

Yes.

(Hon. (Dr) Rachael Nyamai): Deputy Leader of the Majority Party.

Thank you very much, Hon. Temporary Speaker. I know it is a long day for you, but we are managing. Hon. Temporary Speaker, I beg to move the following Procedural Motion: THAT, pursuant to the provisions of Standing Order 97(1), this House orders that each speech in the general debate contemplated under Standing Order 114(7A)(b) (Consideration of a Legislative Proposal to amend the Constitution) be limited as follows:- a maximum of 20 minutes for the Mover in moving and 10 minutes in replying, 15 minutes for the Leader of the Majority Party and the Leader of the Minority Party (if the Proposal is not party-sponsored), Member(s) with similar or related proposals and the Chairperson of the relevant Departmental Committee, and 10 minutes for any other Member speaking; and further that priority in speaking shall be accorded to the Leader of the Majority Party, the Leader of the Minority Party and the Chairperson of the relevant Departmental Committee, in that order.

I request Hon. (Prof.) Bartoo Jepkemoi to second.

(Hon. (Dr) Rachael Nyamai): Hon. (Dr) Bartoo.

Hon. Temporary Speaker, I second.

(Hon. (Dr) Rachael Nyamai): Thank you very much, Professor.

Put the Question.

(Hon. (Dr) Rachael Nyamai): Hon. Members, you realise we have skipped Order Nos. 20, 21, 22, 23, 24 and 25. I want to put it on record that the Speaker and House already considered them. We may proceed with Order No. 26. Deputy Leader of the Majority Party, Hon. Baya.

Hon. Temporary Speaker, I beg to move the following Motion: The electronic version of the Official Hansard Report is for information purposesonly. A certified version of this Report can be obtained from the Hansard Editor.

THAT, pursuant to the provisions of Standing Order 28, this House approves the Calendar of the National Assembly (Regular Sessions) for the Fourth Session (2025) as contained in the Schedule to the Order Paper.

Tuesday, 11th February – Thursday, Tuesdays (afternoon), Wednesdays (morning and 13th March 2025 afternoon) and Thursdays (afternoon)

Friday, 14th March – Monday, 31st March 2025

Tuesday, 1st April – Thursday, 1st Tuesdays (afternoon), Wednesdays (morning and May 2025 afternoon) and Thursdays (afternoon)

Friday, 2nd May – Monday, 26th May 2025

Tuesday, 27th May – Thursday, 3rd Tuesdays (afternoon), Wednesdays (morning and July 2025 afternoon) and Thursdays (afternoon)

Friday, 4th July – Monday, 21st July 2025

Tuesday, 22nd July – Thursday, 14th Tuesdays (afternoon), Wednesdays (morning and August 2025 afternoon) and Thursdays (afternoon)

Friday, 15th August – Monday, 15th September 2025

Tuesday, 16th September – Thursday, Tuesdays (afternoon), Wednesdays (morning and 16th October 2025 afternoon) and Thursdays (afternoon)

Friday, 17th October – Monday, 3rd November 2025

Tuesday, 4th November – Thursday, Tuesdays (afternoon), Wednesdays (morning and 4th December 2025 afternoon) and Thursdays (afternoon)

Friday, 5th December 2025 – Monday, 9th February 2026

(Hon. (Dr) Rachael Nyamai): Hon. Murugara, please proceed.

Thank you very much, Hon. Temporary Speaker. As I second this Motion, it is important that I echo the sentiments of the Deputy Leader of the Majority Party. As shown by this calendar, our hands are full. We have much to do, especially in the budget-making process, which has just started and will be with us until the end of June 2025. Thereafter, we will look at particular Acts of Parliament to actualise the budget, including the Finance Bill and the Division of Revenue Bill, which will come to us. It is vitally important to remind the country what we went through last year. We should have adequate public participation starting from this House, the government itself, and the Executive, through Hon. John Mbadi, so that the population does not once more say they are not informed or are unaware of what is in this Budget. While these processes are very important, no country in this world can run without financial statements, Budget, taxation or everything else rejected in the previous Finance Act and so we have to prepare ourselves. We know that as parliamentarians, we will take the flak. We are the ones who will be blamed for most of this, but as we do this, and as we ensure that our constituents are informed on what we are doing, let the Executive also come in and even play a bigger role. I urge Members to take the work of the House seriously and ensure that we have the necessary quorums at all times to ensure that the business of each particular day is transacted to the fullest. With those remarks, I beg to second.

Thank you, Hon. Murugara, Member for the Tharaka.

Put the question.

Before I put the question, I would like to give Hon. Samuel Chepkonga, Member for Ainabkoi, a chance.

Thank you very much, Hon. Temporary Speaker. I rise to support this very important Motion. Members need to know when we are proceeding on recess and when we are coming back to the House so that we can plan appropriately to be in our constituencies. Hon. Owen Baya, my very good friend, attempted to say Hon. Murugara is in good standing. I do not know if he meant he is in good standing in this House. All Members in this House are in good standing unless he wants to talk about the legal profession. It is true that Hon. Murugara is in good standing, and that is why he has a practising certificate. However, with regard to this House, all Members are in good standing. With those remarks, I beg to support. The electronic version of the Official Hansard Report is for information purposesonly. A certified version of this Report can be obtained from the Hansard Editor.

Thank you. I will now put the question.