Hon. Members, we have no quorum. Sergeant-at-Arms, ring the Quorum Bell.

We now have Quorum to transact business. Clerk-at-the-Table, proceed.

Hon. Umulkher, take the nearest seat. Hon. Members, I have a short communication to make.

Hon. Members, pursuant to Standing Order No.259D (1), I wish to report to the House the demise of His Holiness Pope Francis, the Supreme Pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church. I do so with profound sadness as we all solemnly reflect on the passing on of the Pontiff, which occurred on Easter Monday, 20th April 2025 at his residence in the Casa Santa Marta, at the Vatican. As Members of Parliament, we join the global community in mourning a shepherd of extraordinary humility, compassion and conviction. Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio on 17th December 1936 in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Pope Francis was the son of Italian immigrants and grew up in a modest household. He was initially trained as a chemist, but later answered the call to priesthood and joined the Society of Jesus (Jesuits) in 1958. He was ordained a priest in 1969 and rose through the ranks with distinction, serving as Provincial Superior of the Jesuits in Argentina, and later as Archbishop of Buenos Aires. His pastoral heart, concern for the poor and deep commitment to social justice was evident throughout his ministry. On 13th March 2013, Jorge Mario Bergoglio was elected the 266th Pope of the Roman Catholic Church, the first Jesuit, the first person from the Americas and the first Pontiff to take the name Francis in honour of Saint Francis of Assisi. His Papacy was marked by a relentless pursuit of mercy, social justice and global dialogue. Pope Francis stood as a moral compass during times of global uncertainty, championing the causes of the downtrodden, reconciliation and environmental stewardship. He often called 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.

upon world leaders to uphold the dignity of all human beings and the sanctity of creation. His landmark encyclicals and tireless pilgrimages touched the lives of millions and inspired generations toward unity, humility and service. The late Pope Francis will also be remembered for his reformative vision within the Church, his efforts to modernise and humanise church doctrine and his outreach to youth and future generations. In Kenya, his legacy remains visible through strengthened interfaith relations, charitable missions and spiritual guidance to millions of faithful. Some words of his powerful quote: ‘The Church is like a field hospital, heals the

are not just a metaphor but a mission he lived daily, reaching out across borders, faiths and ideologies to bind wounds and inspire hope. Pope Francis passed away on Easter Monday, a poignant and symbolic day in the Christian calendar, embodying the message of resurrection and peace that he so faithfully preached. To the Catholic faithful around the world and in our own country, we offer our deepest condolences. We honour his legacy, and we pray for the repose of his soul. May his life’s message continue to guide leaders, nations and people toward justice, humility and compassion. As the world mourns this colossal loss, let us be reminded by his example of the enduring power of servant leadership and the call to build bridges, not walls. May His Holiness Pope Francis rest in eternal peace.

May the soul of Papa Francis rest in eternal peace. Yes, Hon. Owen.

Thank you very much, Hon. Speaker. I join you and the rest of the Catholic faithful around the globe to mourn the passing on of a great man and Pontiff who taught the world that building bridges was the best thing for the world. This message should resonate in the world. Everybody should pick it because as we live in this world, we need each other to build a more cohesive and beautiful world. I went to the Vatican once. I looked forward to meeting the Pope. Unfortunately, I did not get an opportunity to do so. It was one of those moments in my life that I waited for – to meet the Pontiff, shake his hand and get his blessings. Although I did not get the opportunity, it is one of the things have I looked forward to in my life. However, I know you did it and probably you carried my blessings. I need to shake your hand.

They will reach you by osmosis.

Thank you, Hon. Speaker. We have lost a great leader in the world. The Pope is not only the leader of the Catholic Church. He is also a world leader. Therefore, I join the Catholics and other Christians, and other leaders in the world to emulate the spirit of Pope Francis, and continue to build bridges but not walls. As the President works in this country, he tries to build bridges all over so that we can have a more cohesive Kenya. That is the spirit of Pope Francis. I condole with the Catholic Church and pray that God rests Pope Francis’ soul in eternal peace. Thank you.

Thank you. Hon. Pukose. 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, Hon. Speaker. We refer to him as Papa wa Roma. Being a Catholic, this is a big loss to all of us. I join you and the rest of the Catholics in Kenya in mourning the passing on of Pope Francis on Easter Monday. We strive to build bridges, but not walls, between people. This is a very significant message that we should not only take it literally but also embody it as Christians. May his soul rest in eternal peace.

Thank you. Hon. K’Oyoo.

Thank you very much, Hon. Speaker, for giving me an opportunity to register my condolences on passing of the Pope. I am a Catholic by faith. His papacy excited us. We have had many Popes but Pope Francis was the real embodiment of Christianity. He practised a lot of simplicity and sagacity. He preached about equality throughout his life. He was very much committed to the position of the downtrodden. He taught us that it does not mean anything to own everything on this earth and throw your soul to hell. May his soul rest in eternal peace.

Hon. Mayaka.

Thank you, Hon. Speaker. As a Catholic faithful, as all the other Catholics who are here, I would like to share my sincerest condolences. I also do so on behalf of the entire Catholic faithful community in Nyamira and the Gusii region. Pope Francis will be remembered as a people’s person, a servant and person who really believed in standing for the downtrodden. The Pope’s last words as he passed on were ‘Thank you’ to his caregiver. We will always remember him as someone who was ready to intervene in matters that affected the downtrodden. I say pole and may his soul rest in eternal peace.

Hon. Wamumbi.

Thank you, Hon. Speaker. I am not a Catholic faithful but I have friends who are Catholics, like Father Ben from Karatina, Father Kamwaro, Father Kimani and others. I join them in mourning and sending my condolences following the passing on of Papa Francis – a humble man we should all emulate. I offer my condolences to the entire Catholic fraternity. I hope we will get an African Pope during the 267th election. Thank you, Hon. Speaker.

Hon. Bartoo.

Thank you, Hon. Speaker, for giving me an opportunity to record my condolences on my own behalf and that of my constituents. The late Pope was a very inspirational person. You and had the privilege of going to Rome last year. I had the privilege of shaking his hand. He was a symbol of humility. When he came to Kenya, he did not choose to stay in high places. He chose to worship in a very humble place, Kangemi. That is why we remember him for the great humility he had. On my behalf, my family and Eldoret Parish, I say pole .

Thank you. Hon. Nguna.

Thank you, Hon. Speaker. I join my colleagues and the Catholics across the world to convey my deepest sympathy to the entire Catholic Church, the family and friends of Pope Francis. Hon. Speaker, you recall that you and I were in Rome last year, and we visited the Pope. That was my third time to meet him and to shake his hand. I noticed he was a very good man who championed for climate justice. He was full of humility, love of humanity and world reforms. 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.

On behalf of the people of Mwingi West and my family, I pray that Pope Francis rests in eternal peace. Amen.

Hon. Murugara.

Thank you very much, Hon. Speaker. I am not a Catholic but the Holy Roman Catholic Church is quite close to my heart because of the good it continues to do not only in Kenya but also everywhere in the world. This is a very solemn occasion when we have to mourn the passing on of the leader of the Catholic Church, His Holiness Pope Francis. Pope Francis will be remembered for his humility, his love for the poor and justice to everybody. Most importantly, he will be remembered for the way he went around doing his work, especially when he visited the country. We were privileged and honoured because it is not usual to have the Pope here. I remember him for the last thing he did for this country and the people from the greater region of Meru and Tharaka-Nithi. Our Bishop is about to retire. He appointed another gentleman who actually shares a name with me, Fr. Jackson Murugara, to become the Bishop of the Diocese of Meru. He is another great gentleman who is very humble and carries himself in the character of Pope Francis. May the soul of this great man rest in everlasting peace.

Hon. Martin.

Thank you, Hon. Speaker. I rise on my own behalf, that of my family and Ndhiwa community, most of whom are Catholics, to send my condolences to the Catholic faithful around the world. I admired the late Pope for his humility and service. He served to the last minute even when he was ill. That should be admired. May the Lord Almighty comfort all the Catholic faithful, and may they emulate what the late Pope practised.

Hon. Dawood.

Thank you, Hon. Speaker. I wish to convey my condolences, those of my constituents of North Imenti and the Diocese of Meru to the entire Catholic Church fraternity. We have dealt with the Catholic Church for over 70 years in Meru and Tharaka Nithi counties. The late Pope Francis was a uniting figure. He worked well with other religions such as Islam. He cooperated with others and promoted peace. May God rest his soul in eternal peace.

Hon. Mutunga.

Thank you, Hon. Speaker. On my behalf and that of the people of Tigania West Constituency, I rise to eulogise with the entire Catholic fraternity for the loss of the head of their Church. I may not be a Catholic but I have friends who are Catholics like the newly inaugurated Bishop Murugara, Father Kinoti, Father Clement and Father Macharia, who are good at their work and are doing a great job to develop this country. The Holy Pope was integrative and humble. His humility spread across to all people. When he visited Kenya, he did not just sit with the Catholics, but with all denominations. He demonstrated that heaven accommodates everyone. One’s religious roots do not matter; what matters is being right with God.

On behalf of my people, I eulogise with the Catholic faithful. I pray that his soul rests in eternal peace.

Hon. Passaris.

(Nairobi City County, ODM

Hon. Namuar.

Thank you, Hon. Speaker. Together with the people of Turkana Central Constituency and the Diocese of Lodwar, we remember the late Pope and the tremendous things that the Catholic Church has done in Turkana. We send our condolences to all the Catholic faithful. The life of the late Pope Francis is akin to the people from the North who are pastoralists. The late Pope Francis accepted menial jobs like being a bouncer, which helped him to understand the challenges that people go through. He identified with the poor when he travelled to Asia and Europe. He identified with slum dwellers when he came to Kenya. In fact, he advocated for the improvement of their housing. He even advocated for good neighbourliness and love for the poor. He said that those who live in the slums should exhibit Jesus’ attributes.

I know we are looking for another Pope but we want somebody who can broker diplomatic relations similar to what the late Pope Francis did for Cuba and the United States of America (USA). He identified with Islam when he visited the Palestinians and other Arab countries.

Member for Ndia, then Hon. Milemba.

Thank you, Hon. Speaker. I rise to join millions across the globe in mourning the passing of the Holy Father. The Holy Father was a symbol of humility, peace and moral authority. He lived a life that inspires us as leaders to focus on the common good and things that better the lives of our people. On behalf of the people of Ndia, I mourn the passing of the Holy Father.

Thank you, Hon. Speaker. I take this opportunity to join the rest of the Members in standing with all Christians around the world, especially the Catholic faithful. I say pole for the loss of the late Pope Francis. The Catholic Church is great. It has contributed a lot to the world as the first church. The Catholic Church used to designate kings in Europe and it was the overall authority until it agreed to restrict itself to the Vatican, where the Pope sits as the head of the Catholic Church. 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.

Otherwise, the Catholic Church has had a lot of influence not just on religion, but also on the politics of the world. The Catholic Church established some of the first schools in Kenya, including the Alliance High School and other schools, which have done very well. The Catholic Church promoted education before the Government took over.

On behalf of the people of Emuhaya, especially in Ikalikha, where there is a school sponsored by the Catholic Church, I stand with the Catholic faithful as they mourn the loss of the late Pope Francis.

I would like to inform those who profess the Catholic faith that I will be going to the Residence of the Nuncio to sign the condolence book on Thursday at 9.00 a.m. You can get in touch with my office to find out the assembly point, and then we can all go together.

You can as well come. When your spiritual leader passed on, we eulogised the same way here. For those who profess the Catholic faith and their friends, I will be going there on Thursday at 9.00 a.m. Before we call the next Order, allow me to acknowledge Chemelil Sugar School from Muhoroni Constituency, Kisumu in the Public Gallery. I also wish to introduce three staff members from the Parliament of Ghana seated in the Speaker's Gallery. The officers are on a week-long benchmarking visit to Parliament. They are collaborating with our Directorate of Finance and Accounting to gain insights into best practices in expenditure tracking, resource mobilisation and other critical aspects of public financial management. On my behalf and that of the National Assembly, I welcome them to Parliament and wish them fruitful engagements. In Ghana, they say medaase. Thank you. Give Hon. K’Oyoo the microphone. Hon. Mayaka, switch off your microphone.

Thank you, Hon. Speaker. I take this opportunity to formally welcome Chemelil Sugar School to Parliament. This is a serious school from my constituency. Unfortunately, they did not arrange with my office, but I welcome them and urge them to observe the proceedings in Parliament. Many of them may aspire to be politicians and serious Kenyans in future. So, pay attention and observe what is happening. When you go home, learn the ropes of what you intend to be in future. Learn to be responsible Kenyans. I am here to help you. Although this is a private school, I helped them when the company was not doing very well. I have been sponsoring many of them who excel to proceed to various secondary schools. Feel welcome. Thank you.

Thank you. Next Order.

Deputy Leader of the Majority Party, Hon. Owen.

Hon. Speaker, I request that you allow Hon. Osoro and Hon. Gisairo to go out of the Chamber and speak from there because they are disrupting me.

I will allow them to use the Speaker’s recess room for lobbying. 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. Speaker, I beg to lay the following Papers on the Table: 1. The following Legal Notices from the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change and Forestry: (a) Legal Notice No. 62 of 2025 relating to Sustainable Waste Management (Extended Producer Responsibility), (Amendment) (No.2) Regulations, 2025. (b) Legal Notice No. 63 of 2025 relating to Environmental Management and Co-ordination (Water Quality), (Amendment) (No.2) Regulations, 2025.

Hon. Speaker, protect me from these two gentlemen here.

Order, Hon. Members. Hon. Kimaiyo, take your seat. Hon. Members, no Kamukunji in the House.

(c) Legal Notice No. 64 of 2025 relating to Environmental Management and Co-ordination Management (Waste Management), (Amendment) (No.2) Regulations, 2025; (d) Legal Notice No. 65 of 2025 relating to Environmental Management and Co-ordination Management (Sand Harvesting), (Amendment) (No.2) Regulations, 2025; (e) Legal Notice No. 66 of 2025 relating to Environmental Management and Co-ordination Management (Air Quality), (Amendment) (No.2) Regulations, 2025; (f) Legal Notice No. 67 of 2025 relating to Environmental Management and Co-ordination Management (Deposit Bonds) Regulations, 2025; and, (g) Legal Notice No. 68 of 2025 relating to Environmental Management and Co-ordination (Access to Biological Resources and Benefit Sharing) Regulations, 2025. 2. Fifty Fifth (55th) Monetary Policy Statement for December 2024 from the National Treasury and Economic Planning. 3. The Kenya Power & Lighting Co. PLC Audited Financial Statements for the Year Ended 30th June 2024. 4. Reports of the Auditor-General and Financial Statements for the year ended 30th June, 2024 and the certificates therein in respect of: (a) Agricultural Finance Corporation. (b) Central Rift Valley Water Works Development Agency. (c) Chama Cha Uzalendo. (d) Coast Development Authority. (e) Commodities Fund Staff Mortgage and Car Loan Scheme. (f) Data Protection Commissioner. (g) Dedan Kimathi University of Technology. (h) Egerton University Investment Company. (i) Egerton University. (j) Ewaso Ng’iro South River Basin Development Authority. 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.

(k) Financial Reporting Centre. (l) Fund for Africa Private Sector Assistance Project (FAPA) AFDB Grant No. 5700155003553-Kenya Electricity Transmission Company Limited. (m) Government Investments and Public Enterprises-Revenue Statements- The National Treasury. (n) Higher Education Loans Board. (o) Institute of Human Resource Management. (p) Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture Enterprises Limited. (q) Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture Industrial Park Limited. (r) Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture Noodles Limited; (s) Kenya Copyright Board. (t) Kenya Deposit Insurance Corporation. (u) Kenya Development Corporation. (v) Kenya Leather Development Council. (w) Kenya National Innovation Agency. (x) Kenya Off-Grid Solar Access Project (KOSAP-SNV) Credit Number 6135-KE-State Department for Energy. (y) Kenyatta University Teaching Referral and Research Hospital. (z) Kirinyaga University. (aa) Maendeleo Democratic Party. (bb) Management and Supervision Fund-State Department for Co- operatives. (cc) Maasai Mara University. (dd) Narc Kenya. (ee) National Cereals and Produce Board Staff House Mortgage Fund. (ff) National Exchequer Account-The National Treasury. (gg) National Ordinary People Empowerment Union. (hh) National Youth Council. (ii) Office of the Controller of Budget Staff Retirement Benefits Scheme. (jj) Office of the Registrar of Political Parties Staff Mortgage and Car Loan Scheme. (kk) Party of Independent Candidates of Kenya; (ll) Party of National Unity. (mm) Policy Holders Compensation Fund. (nn) Privatization Authority. (oo) Pwani University. (pp) Receiver of Revenue Statements-Development - the National Treasury. (qq) Rift Valley Institute of Science and Technology. (rr) Rural Electrification Scheme-Kenya Power and Lighting Company PLC. (ss) State Department for Gender and Affirmative action. (tt) St. Lawrence Igoji Teachers Training College. (uu) Staff Mortgage and Car Loan Scheme-Kenya Deposit Insurance Corporation. (vv) Tambach Teachers Training College. (ww) The Nyeri National Polytechnic. (xx) Ubuntu Peoples Forum Party. (yy) Unclaimed Assets Trust Fund. (zz) United Party of Independent Alliance (UPIA). 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.

(aaa) Wiper Democratic Movement. (bbb) Youth Enterprise Development Fund. Hon. Speaker, I beg to lay.

Thank you, Hon. Owen. Chairperson of the Departmental Committee on Defence, Intelligence and Foreign Relations. Hon. Bashir, is your Chairman here?

Hon. Speaker, I beg to lay the following Paper on the Table: Report of Departmental Committee on Defence, Intelligence and Foreign Relations on its consideration of the Sessional Paper No.1 of 2025 on the Foreign Policy of the Republic of Kenya.

Chairperson, Committee on the National Government Constituencies Development Fund, Hon. Sirma.

Hon. Speaker, I beg to lay the following Paper on the Table: Report of the Committee on the National Government Constituencies Development Fund on the nominees to the National Government Constituencies Development Fund committees for 31 constituencies.

Next Order.

Chairperson Departmental Committee on Defence, Intelligence and Foreign Relations.

Hon. Speaker, I beg to give notice of the following Motion: THAT, this House adopts the Report of the Departmental Committee on Defence, Intelligence and Foreign Relations on its consideration of the Sessional Paper No.1 of 2025 on the Foreign Policy of the Republic of Kenya laid on the Table of the House on Tuesday, 22nd April 2025.

Chairperson National Government Constituencies Development Fund Committee, Hon. Sirma.

Hon. Speaker, I beg to give notice of the following Motion: THAT, this House adopts the Report of the National Government Constituency Development Fund (NG-CDF) for thirty-one Constituencies Committees laid on the Table of the House on Tuesday, 22nd April 2025, and pursuant to the provisions of Section 43(4) of the National Government Constituency Development Fund Act, Cap. 414A and Paragraphs 5(2) and (10) of the National Government Constituencies Development Fund Regulations, Cap. 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.

414A, approves the list of nominees for appointment to the following 31 constituency committees of the National Government Constituency Development Fund: (a) Awendo (q) Kitutu Chache North (b) Baringo North (r) Kitutu Chache South (c) Bumula (s) Kuresoi South (d) Changamwe (t) Lungalunga (e) Emuhaya (u) Machakos Town (f) Fafi (v) Malindi (g) Garsen (w) Manyatta (h) Hamisi (x) Narok East (i) Igembe Central (y) Narok North (j) Kacheliba (z) Navakholo (k) Kiambu Town (aa) Tigania East (l) Kipipiri (bb) Ugenya (m) Kisumu Central (cc) Uriri (n) Kisumu East (dd) Wajir North (o) Kitui East (ee) Wundanyi. (p) Kitui South

Next Order.

Hon. Bernard Kitur, Member Nandi Hills Constituency.

Hon. Speaker, pursuant to the provisions of Standing Order No.44(2)(c), I rise to request for a Statement from the Chairperson of the Departmental Committee on Health regarding the alarming rise of illegal organ harvesting, particularly kidney harvesting, in Eldoret City and its environs. Hon. Speaker, in June 2024, a distressing case was reported to my constituency office by Mrs Leah Chepkorir regarding her 22 years old son, Amon Kipruto Melly. According to the report, her son's kidney was harvested at Mediheal Hospital after he was lured by the facility with an offer to donate the organ at a fee of Ksh600,000. Thereafter, he developed medical complications associated with organ harvesting. Tragically, Mr Kipruto now lives with lifelong health challenges. He remains unproductive and dependent on continuous medical care as his quality of life has been severely compromised. Subsequently, this incident was reported to Langas Police Station under OB No.41, dated 31st August 2024. In the report, Amon alleged that he and other young men were first transported to Mombasa and thereafter smuggled across the border to a neighbouring country in a series of suspicious meetings. This indicates the existence of not just a localised criminal operation, but a transnational organ trafficking syndicate. This is just one among many undocumented cases of illegal organ harvesting by a syndicate operating within our country and internationally. Multiple reports have implicated Mediheal Hospital, which is claimed to be facilitating illegal kidney transplants and organ trafficking, raising significant concerns about possible 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.

collusion between the hospital and criminal syndicates who exploit medical infrastructure for illicit organ trade. Notably, on 18th April 2025, the founder of Mediheal Hospital was suspended as the Biovax chairperson, pending investigations into allegations of illegal kidney transplant procedures at Mediheal Hospital and Fertility Centre in Eldoret. The legal framework governing organ harvesting in Kenya is outlined in Section 80 of the Health Act, Cap 241. This legislation stipulates penalties of up to Ksh10 million or imprisonment for up to 10 years for organ harvesting or trafficking. However, these penalties appear insufficient to deter perpetrators of this illicit trade, which operates in secrecy and in cahoots with international syndicates. Hon. Speaker, it is against this background that I request for a Statement from the Chairperson Departmental Committee on Health addressing the following: 1. The current status of investigations regarding the case of Amon Melly reported at Langas Police Station. 2. The scope and status of investigations into the allegations of illegal kidney harvesting by Mediheal Hospital. 3. The measures being implemented to ensure compliance with ethical standards and national laws reported regarding organ donations and transplants by healthcare institutions. 4. A report on the identity and activities of both local and international criminal syndicates involved in illegal organ harvesting, including strategic initiatives undertaken to dismantle these networks. 5. The protective measures being implemented to safeguard vulnerable populations from illegal organ trade. 6. The comprehensive support framework established for victims and survivors of organ harvesting, including compensation, medical care and counselling services, along with specific rehabilitation programmes currently in place or planned for implementation. Hon. Speaker, I raised this Statement on 28th November 2024. Again, it has been upheld in the media.

You have resurrected it and that is about all. No more. Chairman Departmental Committee on Health, can you bring a response within the first week after recess?

Hon. Speaker, this is an important matter. We will endeavour to bring the report within the period you have indicated.

Hon. Daniel Nanok, Member for Turkana West Constituency.

Hon. Speaker, pursuant to the provisions of Standing Order No.44(2)(c), I wish to request for a Statement from the Chairperson of the Departmental Committee on Administration and Internal Security regarding the implementation of Shirika Plan and its effect on the refugee host communities. Kenya has for many years upheld an open-door asylum policy, hosting over 700,000 refugees and asylum seekers, primarily from Somalia, South Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The majority of these refugees and asylum seekers reside in camps within Daadab in Garissa County, Kakuma and Kalobeyei in Turkana County, while a few reside in Nairobi and other urban areas. The rights of these refugees are protected under the Refugees Act (CAP 173) which guarantees freedom of movement, the right to work, and access to financial services, among others. The Act also seeks to transition from a traditional camp-based model to one of local 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.

integration, empowering refugees to actively contribute to the socio-economic development of their host communities. The Government, in line with the Refugees Act (CAP173), has formulated a policy known as Shirika Plan, which is a multi-year initiative to promote the socio-economic inclusion of refugees in Kenya by transforming camps into integrated settlements within host communities for both refugees and asylum seekers. This policy was officially launched by His Excellency the President on 28th March 2025. While the plan is a progressive step toward refugee inclusion, it has sparked concerns over inadequate public participation and limited engagement with the host communities and their leaders, especially in Garissa and Turkana counties. In addition, host communities like those in Turkana West, which have accommodated refugees for over 33 years, now face fears of marginalisation, increased pressure on already stretched services, and rising tensions due to lack of consultation. It is against this background that I request for a Statement from the Chairperson of the Departmental Committee on Administration and Internal Security on the following: 1. A report on whether the National Government conducted public participation and sensitisation on the Shirika Plan, including evidence of the activity and the extent to which it complies with Articles 10(2)(a) and 232(1)(d) of the Constitution on involvement of the people in policy making. 2. Measures put in place to ensure that the Shirika Plan does not overstretch existing community resources, specifically with respect to infrastructure such as schools, health facilities, water supply and sanitation, and the strategies put in place to fund projects enhancing the socio-economic facilities of host communities. 3. Steps being taken to strengthen security, promote peaceful co-existence, and empower host communities throughout the implementation of the plan. 4. Clarification on terms used such as “integration” of refugees and host communities, and details on support mechanisms available to help refugees to become self-reliant, including how job opportunities are going to be structured to ensure equitable competition between host community members and refugees. 5. Measures put in place to transition the refugees under the Shirika Plan, including the specific roles and contributions of key stakeholders such as the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). I thank you, Hon. Speaker.

Thank you, Hon. Nanok. Chairperson of the Departmental Committee on Administration and Internal Security, Hon. Tongoyo, can you bring a response within the first week after recess?

Hon. Speaker, I just want a clarification. I think the request for Statement is misplaced. According to our Standing Order, this request for Statement should be referred to the Regional Integration Committee. The issue of Shirika Plan had been taken away from my Committee.

Under which Ministry are refugees?

It is under Hon. Peter Lochakapong’s committee. There is confusion. Just as the issue of prisons falls under the Justice and Legal Affairs Committee, this is under Hon. Peter Lochakapong. He can confirm the same.

Hon. Lochakapong, is your committee responsible for refugee issues?

Yes.

We will redirect the request for the Statement to you. Bring a response within the first week after the recess. 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.

This is noted and I am most obliged. My committee oversees matters of refugee affairs.

Eng. Nzambia of Kilome.

Hon. Speaker, pursuant to the provisions of Standing Order 44(2)(c), I rise to request for a Statement from the Chairperson of the Departmental Committee on Administration and Internal Security regarding review of the registration, re-registration, and alterations fees for birth certificates. On 26th September 2024, the Cabinet Secretary for Interior and National Administration

Legal Notice No.153 of 2024 announced revised fees for registration of births as follows: 1. The registration of a birth more than six months after the date of birth increased from Ksh100 to Ksh500. 2. The registration of the name or alteration in the name of any child whose birth has previously been registered increased from Ksh40 to Ksh1,000. 3. Making a correction in a birth entry, the fee increased from Ksh40 to Ksh1000. 4. Birth certificate, the fee is Ksh200. 5. Re-registration of a birth, the fee is Ksh1000. Hon. Speaker, the surge in birth certificate fees has created an unjust barrier for countless families, transforming a fundamental right into a privilege contingent on financial means. As a mandatory legal requirement, a birth certificate serves as the cornerstone of identity without which children face exclusion from education, healthcare and social protection, perpetuating cycles of poverty and marginalisation. When such essential civil documentation becomes inaccessible due to prohibitive costs, we fail in our constitutional duty to guarantee equal dignity and opportunity for all citizens. Further, birth certificates are obtained by visiting sub-county registrars, Huduma Centres, or county Civil Registration Services (CRS) offices; a process that often requires families to travel long distances, incurring significant costs and time burdens. This challenge is even adverse in rural and underserved communities where registration centres are sparse and transportation infrastructure is limited. Hon. Speaker, it is against this background that I seek a Statement from the Chairperson of the Departmental Committee on Administration and Internal Security on the following: 1. Measures that the Ministry of Interior and National Administration is putting in place to abolish the increased fees to ensure that birth certificates remain affordable to all citizens. 2. Plans put in place by the Ministry to prioritise further decentralisation of registration services, expanding mobile registration units, and leveraging digital platforms like eCitizen to streamline the applications and minimise physical travel requirements. 3. Steps being taken by the Ministry to facilitate the implementation of Section 7(2) of the Children Act of 2022, which provides that every child has the right to be registered in the registrar of birth immediately after birth in accordance with the Births and Registration Act (CAP 149). I thank you, Hon. Speaker. This is the same problem Kenyan citizens had with the increased fees for identification cards. It will be very fair that…

You are debating your own request for Statement. Once you make the request for Statement, it is 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.

Yes, Hon. Wangari.

Thank you, Hon. Speaker for allowing me to ride on Hon. Nzambia’s Statement. As the Chair responds, I want him to also respond to my proposed Bill on births and registration of children. I brought a very important legislative proposal and it went through the Budget and Appropriations Committee. He can brief the House on how far the Bill is. It would sort many of the issues being raised.

Thank you. Hon. Tongoyo, response should be the first week after recess.

Hon. Speaker, I will deliver as you have directed. I also want to ride on what Hon. Wangare has talked about on her proposed Bill. It is a very important Bill that speaks to this issue. I am sure it will help us address such issues. Kindly, as much as we address the issue of birth certificates, it is good to appreciate…

Order, Majority Whip. The work of the Whip is not to whip violently.

Thank you, Hon. Speaker. I was saying that as we seek for a response to this request for a Statement, we should appreciate the issuance of identification cards. You know, it is the same Hon. Member who asked about identification cards processing fee. The President has so far waived the fee. Last week, I promised this House that I will commit to call the Cabinet Secretary to appear before our Committee to address Members’ Questions and Statements. I want to report that we had a very successful Session of almost two hours with the Cabinet Secretary and managed to exhaust 11 Questions. Probably, tomorrow, I will table them on the Floor of this House. Thank you.

Very good.

Hon. Abdi Ali Adi, the Member for Ijara

Hon. Speaker, pursuant to the provisions of Standing Order No.44(2)(c), I rise to request for a Statement from the Chairperson of the Departmental Committee on Defence, Intelligence and Foreign Relations regarding an attack on herders in Kurunjo area in Hulugho Ward of Ijara Constituency. On 23rd March 2025, a tragic incident occurred when officers of the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) Special Forces and specifically, the Long-Range Surveillance Unit (LRS), ambushed and attacked a group of unarmed herders who had entered the fringes of Boni Forest in search of pasture for their livestock. The herders’ move was necessitated by a severe drought crisis affecting the region, forcing them to seek alternative grazing areas for their livestock. The security personnel deployed excessive force and brutal assault resulting in devastating consequences to the community and the tragic death of Mr Abdi Sabdow Mohamed of ID No.20877833. Following the incident, 15 people were critically injured, and several others, including women and children, remain unaccounted for. Also, over 5,000 heads of cattle were either 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.

scattered or driven deep into the Boni Forest, further threatening the survival of the affected families, whose livelihoods depend entirely on livestock. This incident has caused anxiety in the community, highlighting concerns about the use of force by security personnel and the need for a more nuanced approach to addressing security challenges in the region. Nomadic pastoralists in northern Kenya have traditionally relied on various grazing routes during droughts, hence criminalising their movement and responding with excessive force undermines their dignity, rights and security, leaving them vulnerable and exposed. They now fear and feel betrayed not from external sources but from Government forces that they trusted for protection and support over the years whenever they faced severe drought. It is against this background that I request for a Statement from the Chairperson of the Departmental Committee on Defence, Intelligence and Foreign Relations on the following

Nominated Member, Hon. Harun, you can enjoy a ride on that request for a Statement.

Thank you, Hon. Speaker for giving me the opportunity to comment on this matter. The Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) issue in our communities has become a serious crisis. Last week, I had a request for a Statement on the same issue, where Abdullah Yusuf was killed by the KDF in 2019. It took us a long process to strip him off his military privilege to bring him to a civilian court. In 2023, I sought a Statement where Sadiq Abdikadir was killed by the KDF in Manda area. We, equally, have a crisis with the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) in communities, especially in Balambala area. We are wondering because on one side, we have KDF and on another, we have KWS while we are still dealing with Al-Shabaab. I, am, therefore, requesting the Committee to look into this matter. It is becoming a serious problem. Thank you.

Thank you. Chairman of the Departmental Committee on Defence, Intelligence and Foreign Relations. Wapi Bashir? Hon. Wangari, are you a Member of that Committee?

Yes, Hon. Speaker.

Bring a response the first week after recess.

Much obliged, Hon. Speaker.

Hon. Adbul Haro, the Member for Mandera South.

Hon. Speaker, pursuant to the provisions of Standing Order No.44(2)(c), I rise to request for a Statement from the Chairperson 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.

Committee on National Cohesion and Equal Opportunity regarding the Status of Representation of Ethnic Communities in the Public Service for the Financial Years 2022/2023 and 2023/2024. The Public Service Commission is established under Article 233 of the Constitution to manage and oversight human resource in the public service. Its mandate under Article 234 includes among others, to promote the values and principles of public service including representation of Kenya’s diverse communities and providing equal opportunities for appointment of the members of all ethnic groups. In 2024, the Commission developed the Draft Public Service Commission (Affirmative Action) Regulations with an aim to provide a framework for ensuring equitable representation of ethnic communities in the public service. Additionally, the Commission’s Framework for the Implementation of Values and Principles in Articles 10 and 232 provides that public institutions should observe the principle of equitable representation of all ethnic communities in proportion to their share of the national population. It is against this background that I request for a Statement from the Chairperson of the Committee on National Cohesion and Equal Opportunity on the following: 1. A report on the national proportionate population share of each of the 46 ethnic communities, indicating communities whose representation in the public service: (a) Is proportionate to their national population share. (b) Exceeds their proportionate share. (c) Is below their proportionate share. (d) Not represented in the public service at all. 2. Authorised establishment indicating the in-post figures and the variance for each Ministry and State Department for the Financial Years 2022/2023 and 2023/2024. 3. A report on staff employed by the Public Service Commission, detailing designation, job scale and ethnicity. 4. A report of all new appointments and promotions made in Ministries, Departments and Agencies for the Financial Years 2022/2023 and 2023/2024 including ethnic representation; and 5. Status of the Draft Public Service Commission (Affirmative Action) Regulations, 2024. I, thank you.

Thank you, Hon. Haro. The Chairperson of the Select Committee on National Cohesion and Equal Opportunity, Hon. Yusuf, you bring a response in the first week after the recess.

Okay.

Thank you. Hon. Adan Keynan, Member for Eldas.

Hon. Speaker, I rise under Standing Order No.44(2)(c), to request for a Statement from the Chairperson of the Departmental Committee on Transport and Infrastructure regarding progress made in tarmacking of the Wajir-Griftu- Eldas-Buna-Bute-Moyale-Ethiopia (A14) International Trunk Road managed by the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA). The Wajir-Griftu-Eldas-Buna-Bute-Moyale-Ethiopia Road is part of the A14 designated International Trunk Road. The A14 runs through Northern Kenya, connecting Wajir 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 Moyale Border, and also facilitates cross-border connections to Ethiopia for a distance of approximately, 545 kilometres. The Wajir-Griftu-Eldas-Buna-Bute-Moyale-Ethiopia route has the potential to unlock transformative potential, which includes reducing logistics costs for businesses, strengthening supply chain resilience, and fostering regional development. Such strategic investments not only bridge isolated communities to national and continental markets but also, position Northern Kenya as a gateway for Pan-African trade, which aligns with the vision of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) of seamless continental connectivity. This road was done in 1974. I am sure you are aware of the history. A robust road network serves as the backbone of economic transformation, catalysing trade expansion, cross-border integration, and equitable regional development. Ethiopia has reportedly successfully completed its section of the road connecting Moyale to Addis, transforming this critical border link into a powerful driver of regional integration. The upgraded corridor now facilitates seamless trade and movement between Kenya and Ethiopia, significantly reducing transit time and costs. However, on the Kenyan side, tarmacking of the road from Wajir to Moyale is yet to commence. Completion of this strategic road infrastructure will not only strengthen bilateral relations but also, unlock new opportunities for economic collaboration, fostering growth across the East African (EA) region and beyond. It is against this background, that I seek a Statement from the Chairperson of the Departmental Committee on Transport and Infrastructure on the following: 1. The current status of funding, planning and implementation of the tarmacking of the Wajir-Griftu-Eldas-Buna-Bute-Moyale-Ethiopia Road A14 International Trunk Road managed by KeNHA, including specific timelines for its commencement. 2. Plans put in place to fund this project, particularly under the Horn of Africa Gateway Project or any other development initiatives, and details of these funding commitments. 3. Measures put in place to fast-track the tarmacking of this critical corridor to ensure its timely completion and maximise its economic and regional integration benefits. I, thank you.

Thank you. The Chairperson of the Departmental Committee on Transport and Infrastructure, Hon. GK.

Hon. Speaker, we will avail a detailed response after the recess.

Within what period?

After the recess or in two weeks, whichever comes earlier.

Two weeks after recess?

No. After recess, we should be able t0---

Within the first week?

Yes. Within the first week.

Okay. Yes, Hon. Martha Wangari.

Thank you, Hon. Speaker. Allow me to raise a constitutional requirement on a Bill that has been pending in this House. Article 113 of our Constitution clearly spells out that mediation committees should finish their job within 30 days. The Gambling Control Bill (National Assembly Bill No. 70 of 2023) has been in abeyance since last year. Maybe you can help me guide the Leader of the Majority Party and 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.

the Leader of the Minority Party to ensure that either that Mediation Committee is disbanded or redone so that we deal with this gambling menace as it is.

Clerk-at-the-Table, check out and give me a brief. Hon. Martha Wangari, tomorrow, I will give you guidance. Hon. Nguna.

Hon. Speaker, pursuant to Standing Order No.44(2)(c), I wish to request for a Statement from the Chairperson of the Departmental Committee on Blue Economy, Water and Irrigation regarding the circumstances surrounding the delayed execution of the service contract of the Director-General of the Kenya Fisheries Service (KeFS). The Fisheries Management and Development Act, Cap 378, provides for the appointment of a Director-General of the KeFS, who is also the Chief Executive Officer of the Service. The current Director-General was appointed in October 2020 for a period of four years, renewable once in line with the provisions of the Act, the KeFS Human Resource Policies and Procedures manual, the Mwongozo and the Guidelines on Terms and Conditions for State Corporations (2004). Under the applicable framework, a serving Director-General wishing for renewal of contract is required to express interest of renewal by writing to the Chairman of the Board of Directors at least, six months prior to the expiry of the contract, for consideration and approval of the Board. It is on the basis of this framework that Mr Daniel Mungai, the Director-General, sought renewal of his contract prior to the expiry of his first contract term. It is believed that during the 26th Ordinary Session of the Kenya Fisheries Service Board Meeting held on 12th July 2024, the Board made a unanimous decision to renew the contract of Mr Daniel Mungai as the Director-General of the KeFS for a second term. Surprisingly, despite the Board having sought and received concurrence from the Ministry of Mining, Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs through the Prime Cabinet Secretary, who was then acting as the Cabinet Secretary, the contract was never executed. Instead, Mr Mungai was awarded an extension of a period of six months, raising concerns on compliance with the Board Resolution. It is on the above matters, that I seek a statement from the Chairperson of the Departmental Committee on Blue Economy, Water and Irrigation on the following: 1. The circumstances surrounding the failure to execute renewal of the contract of Mr Daniel Mungai as the Director-General of Kenya Fisheries Service, despite the approval of the Board on 12th July 2024, and the justification for the award of a six-month extension of tenure. 2. Steps taken to confirm Mr Daniel Mungai as the substantive Director-General of the KeFS so as to ensure operational continuity of the Service, including timelines. Thank you, Hon Speaker.

The Chairman of the Departmental Committee on Blue Economy, Water and Irrigation.

You are the Vice-Chairman? When can you bring the response?

Hon. Speaker, it will be when we come from recess, or two weeks from now.

Is that Hon. Kitayama? 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; it is yours truly.

That should be within the first week of resumption. Next Order.

I call upon the Mover to reply. The Chairperson has informed me that Hon. Gideon Kimaiyo, the Member for Keiyo South, will reply. Go ahead.

Thank you, Hon. Speaker. This Motion was about the irregular exemption of taxes. I want to thank this House and everyone who contributed to the Committee of the Whole House. On behalf of the Chairperson of the Committee on Delegated Legislation and the Members, thank you. Tax exemption sets a very bad precedent in this country, and we should punish those who do not pay taxes instead of encouraging them. In this Motion, a company was exempted from paying taxes. At the moment, we are struggling to collect taxes through the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA). If we continue allowing people to avoid paying taxes, we will face significant challenges in securing funds for development. Therefore, as a House, we should discourage tax exemptions. I beg to reply.

Thank you. Members on their feet, take your seats.

Hon. Anthony Kibagendi and Hon. Abdi Ali Abdi, take your seats.

Order, Hon. Nzambia. Do you think you are in the village in Kilome?

What is Hon. Kasalu saying to you?

Deputy Leader of the Majority Party, Hon. Owen Baya.

Thank you, Hon. Speaker. I beg to move that the Social Protection Bill (National Assembly Bill No. 12 of 2025) be now read a Second Time. The principal object of the Bill is to reduce poverty and vulnerability and improve the well-being of the people by providing assistance, services and programmes that build human capital and cushion people against risks and contingencies throughout their cycle. Part I of the Bill provides for the preliminary matters such as the interpretation of terms used in the Bill objects and the Act, the application of the Act, the guiding principles and the role of the county government in the provision of the Social Protection Bill. The Bill provides for the establishment of the National Board of Social Protection and defines its composition, functions, powers, and sources of funds. Some functions of the Board include advising the Cabinet Secretary on matters related to social protection, designing and implementing social protection interventions and programs, providing social assistance and care to vulnerable persons, coordinating social protection interventions, establishing and maintaining a social protection registry, undertaking civic education on social protection, periodically indexing social assistance benefits in collaboration with the National Treasury, and mobilising resources for social protection initiatives. Many people in this country require social protection, but we currently lack a law that anchors it. This includes vulnerable individuals, persons living with disabilities, and many others who need assistance from the government to shield them from the vagaries of the kind of life that they live in. For instance, while we provide monthly stipends to the elderly, there is no law backing this up. There are many other disbursements from the government without any legal framework to support them. This is an opportunity to establish a law that guides social protection in our country. One of the key aspects of this law is its provision for a registry. At times, county governments issue resources to individuals, and the national government and NGOs do the same. Just a few people benefit from this because they know how to go about the system. However, if we have a registry of those who need social protection, we can better care for them. Currently, an individual may receive funds this month to buy food, but then in three months, they receive nothing. We need to ring-fence those who require social protection in this country by ensuring we have a law in place. Another important aspect of this law is that it extends to the grassroots level. How do we create a registry? We need officers to go out and identify the beneficiaries of the social protection funds provided in this country. Last month, we disbursed around Ksh3.2 billion for the elderly. As Members of Parliament, we received messages confirming that this money reached the beneficiaries, but the criterion for how this is done remains questionable. There are no established procedures for identifying a beneficiary of social protection funds here. Even when the Exchequer is released, we are left asking under what law it has been executed. Many donors want to help the vulnerable in our country, but due to the absence of a proper law guiding the process, they are hesitant to assist. This law will go a long way in establishing the criterion, a system, a legal framework, and regulations that ensure that we take care of the vulnerable people in this country. Part III of the Bill provides for the administration of social protection benefits. It outlines the categories of persons who may be granted social protection benefits, the types of social protection benefits offered under the Act, the eligibility criteria and the procedures for 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.

applying for the benefits. It also provides for reviews and appeals against the decisions of the Board, the rights and obligations of beneficiaries, the consequences of abusing social protection benefits and the circumstances under which social protection benefits may be terminated or refunds made to the Board. This Part also provides for the review and indexation of social protection benefits and the establishment of a social protection registry. These are the key elements that are currently missing in disbursing resources to people we need to ring-fence as people under social protection obligations. It is important to provide eligibility criteria. Sometimes you go to the village and see a 60-year-old man who gets benefits and a 70-year-old man does not get yet the older one requires funds more than any other does and we ask ourselves about the criterion that picked one and over the other. Sometimes you see people who have retired and have resources, for example, enough to fund a pension, a farm, and everything that supports their life. However, they get the funds for wazees yet a person who does not have a pension does not get the funds. This is what we tend to cure in this Bill. Obligations and rights is one of the most important things I look at. Sometimes you see an old man who is supposed to be given money from the Inua Jamii Fund but does not have information. The money is not collected for a whole year so some crooks pick the money and use it. This is what we want to cure through this Bill. I wind up, I am asking Hon. Sylvanus Osoro to get prepared to second this Bill. Part IV of the Bill highlights offences. They include prohibition of obstruction… There is also prohibition of persons from giving false information, unlawful disclosures of information, fraud, and misappropriation of funds. Misappropriation of funds is one of the things that we suffer from. Sometimes this money is given but a percentage higher than what goes to the vulnerable people is used for administration. Some parts of this country do not get these funds because data has not been collected. This law will help every person who requires assistance in Changamwe to get the assistance; not the bourgeoisie there yet they get assistance. This is an important law. I urge this Parliament to support it to ensure the people of Suba North and every eligible Kenyan benefits. I can see Hon. Bensouda is happy with this law because it will help the people of Homa Bay to also be reached so that they do not say that Serikali has not reached them. I urge everybody, including people from the Leader of the Minority Party’s home, to get social protection. I urge everybody and every Member that this law is worth supporting, passing, and worth the name of this Parliament. I beg to move and request Hon. Silvanus Osoro, Member for Mugirango South and the Whip of the Majority Party, to second.

Hon. Osoro.

Thank you very much, Hon. Speaker. One thing should be very clear as I second this particular Bill. The growing hardly tell that they will get old at some point. While in your 30s, you have to know that there is a time you will be 40 or 50. I used to look at aged people when I was an extremely young man - although you still call me “young man” ---

You are a very “young man”.

Thank you very much, Hon. Speaker. I agree. The people who were 40 used to look very old to me when I was 20. I did not know that 40 was just next door. Now that I am also there, I find the 60-year olds very old. I know I will also be there soon. I do not know where to classify you, Hon. Speaker, but that is the reality of life. People will get to 60, 70, and 80 years, at some point. It is the duty of a responsible, well-organised and well-structured government to take care of the elderly; to take care of people with such majority age. 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.

Looking at the economic status of our country and the opportunities that are there, challenges will happen when people get to the age of 70 years, if the Government does not step in to take care of people. That is why issues of the Universal Health Coverage (UHC) are very vital as far as the question of social protection is concerned. Looking at grown, matured, and progressive jurisdictions such as the United States, they have provision of funds specifically to take care of old people. They have clinics and people employed to manage and nurse the old.

The United States pays that. I do not know why Hon. Hassan is protesting. Hon. Speaker, protect me.

Hon. Hassan, you are out of order. You know what to do if the Member on the Floor is misleading the House. Go on.

Hon. Speaker, I will be guided by him because he really must have travelled, but I was saying that progressive jurisdictions have provisions to take care of the elderly and the sick. We must develop this culture here. Looking at the mortality rate of this country, people who are perhaps in their post-50s tend not to live long because of a lack of social protection provisions and other such elements. This Bill comes in handy to create structures on who exactly is supposed to benefit; the board and its roles; and the roles of the Cabinet Secretary; and, those responsible. It clears the way for the formation of a well-structured format to help come up with a very good structure of settling the people in the age of majority. With those very many remarks, I beg to second.

Hon. Members, on your feet, take your seats.

I see many names on the screen. They were there when we started. I do not know if they are for this Bill. Log out if you are not for this Bill. Yes, Junet?

I stand to raise an issue on whether we have Quorum in the House to discuss this, Bill.

Clerks-at-the-Table, do we have Quorum?

Hon. Members, we have 35 Members whereas we need 50 Members. Serjeants-at- Arms, ring the Bell as the Whips do their job.

Order, Hon. Members. The Quorum Bell has been ringing for the last 10 minutes. I added another three minutes. It appears we are not getting quorum. As we adjourn, I want the leadership to come to my office in the next three to four minutes so that we can consult; Hon. Baya, Hon. Junet and your team.

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. Members, due to a quorum hitch, the House now stands adjourned until tomorrow, 23rd April 2025, at 9.30 a.m.

The House rose at 4.26 p.m.

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.

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.