Hon. Senators, good morning. It is my singular pleasure and privilege this morning to welcome you to this first sitting of the Senate of the 13th Parliament. I take this opportunity to congratulate all of you on your election. The people of this country have placed tremendous trust in you. My colleagues and I who work in the secretariat of the Senate have the honor and privilege to be the people that will serve you as you prosecute these great responsibilities. Hon. Senators, Standing Order No.3(1)(a) of the Senate Standing Orders provides as follows: - “On the first sitting of a new Senate, pursuant to the President’s notification under Article 126(2) of the Constitution, the Clerk shall read the notification of the President as published in the gazette--- I will pause to allow the Senators at the bar to take their seats.

Hon. Senators, pursuant to this provision of the Standing Orders, I will now proceed to read the notification of His Excellency the President as follows and I quote: -

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

Hon. Senators, Standing Order No. 3(1)(b) requires that on the first sitting of a new Senate, Pursuant to the President’s notification under Article 126(2) of the Constitution; the Clerk shall lay a list of the names of the persons elected as Senators on the Table of the Senate. I will now proceed to lay on the Table of the Senate Gazette Notice No.9955 dated 24th August, 2022 that lists the persons elected as Senators and Gazette Notice No.10537 dated 7th of September, 2022 containing the names of the persons nominated as Senators pursuant to Article 98(1)(b),(c) and (d) of the Constitution. I thank you.

Mr. Nyegenye): Hon. Senators, I have the following communication to make. This communication relates to the procedure that will be followed in the Administration of the Oath or Affirmation of Office. I will pause to allow Senators at the Bar to take their seats.

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

Hon. Senators, Standing Orders No.3(1)(c) requires that on the first sitting of a new Senate, pursuant to the President’s notification under Article126(2) of the Constitution, the Clerk shall administer the Oath or Affirmation of Office, provided for in the Third Schedule to the Constitution, to all Senators present in the Senate, in the order set out in Standing Order No.3(2). Standing Order No. 3(2) provides as follows: “The Clerk shall administer the Oath or Affirmation of Office to Senators in alphabetical order using the following order of precedence–– (a) Senators with the longest cumulative period of service in the Senate; (b) Senators with the longest cumulative period of service in the Senate and the National Assembly; (c) Senators with the longest cumulative period of service in the National Assembly; (d) Senators with the longest cumulative period of service in any other legislature; and (e) all other Senators.” Senators at the Bar, kindly, take your seats.

Hon. Senators, it is important to observe that Standing Order No. .3(3) provides as follows- “Pursuant to Article74 of the Constitution, no person shall assume or perform any functions of the office of a Senator before taking and subscribing to the Oath or Affirmation of Office provided for under paragraph (1).”

Standing Order No. 3(4), further provides- “When the Clerk is administering the Oath or Affirmation of Office to Senators and before the Clerk has administered the Oath or Affirmation of Office to the Speaker, any question arising in the Senate shall be determined by the Clerk who shall, during that period, exercise the powers of the Speaker.”

Hon. Senators, pursuant to Standing Order No.3(1)(c), I shall now proceed to administer the Oath or Affirmation of Office to all Senators here present in the order of precedence that is set out in Standing Order No.3(2) and captured in the appendix of today's Order Paper.

In order to facilitate this process, the name of each Senator shall be called out. When called, the Senator shall proceed to the podium on my right and shall thereupon have the option to take the Oath or Affirmation of Office in accordance with their respective religious persuasion. After taking the Oath or Affirmation of Office, the Senators shall then proceed to subscribe to the Oath or Affirmation of Office at the Table on my left by signing the Oath or Affirmation Book. The Order shall be that when called upon, you shall go to the Bar and bow, then proceed to the swearing in arena where we shall administer the Oath or Affirmation of

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

Office. You will then proceed to the Table on the left where you will subscribe to the Oath or Affirmation of Office. After that, you will proceed to the Bar, bow again and then resume your seat. Hon. Senators at the Bar, kindly take your seats.

Hon. Senators, we are now ready to commence the process. I will therefore ask the Clerk-at-the-Table to call out the name of each Senator as it is set out in the appendix of the Order Paper. When you are called, you will come to the podium and we shall administer the Oath in the manner we have described. Kindly, proceed.

Mimi, Bw. James Kamau Murango, nikiwa nimechaguliwa kama mwanachama wa Seneti, naapa kwa jina la Mwenyezi Mungu kwamba nitakuwa mwaminifu na mtiifu kwa watu na Jamuhuri ya Kenya na Rais wangu William Samoei Ruto. Kwamba nitatii---

Point of order! No! Point of order, Mr. Clerk!

Hon. Senators, it will not be necessary to raise points of order, the oath must be read as it is. The oath will be read as it is.

Murango James Kamau

Kirinyaga County Beatrice Akinyi Oyomo

Nominated Beth Kalunda Syengo Nominated Betty Batuli Montet Nominated Catherine Muyeka Mumma Nominated Chesang Allan Kiprotich Trans Nzoia County Chute Mohamed Said Marsabit County George Mungai Mbugua

Nominated Gloria Magoma Orwoba

Nominated Hamida Ali Kibwana

Nominated Hezena M. Lemaletian

Nominated Keroche Tabitha Karanja

Nakuru County Mandago Jackson Kiplagat

Uasin Gishu County Mariam Sheikh Omar

Nominated Maureen Tabitha Mutinda

Nominated Methu John Muhia

Nyandarua County Miraj Abdullahi Abdulrahman

Nominated Mundigi Alexander Munyi

Embu County Ngugi Joe Joseph Nyutu

Murang’a County Nyamu Karen Njeri

Nominated Odhiambo Ojienda Tom (Prof.)

Kisumu County Oketch Eddy Gicheru

Migori County Okoiti Andrew Omtatah

Busia County Raphael Chimera Mwinzagu

Nominated Roba Ali Ibrahim

Mandera County Seki Lenku Ole Kanar

Kajiado County

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

Sifuna Edwine Watenya

Nairobi City County Veronica Waheti Nduati Maina

Nominated Wakili Hillary Kiprotich Sigei

Bomet County Wamatinga Wahome

Nyeri County Cherarkey Samson K.

Nandi County

Next Order.

On a point of Order, Mr. Clerk.

What is your point of Order, Sen. M. Kajwang?

Mr Clerk, you sitting in today as the Speaker of the House pending election of the Speaker, I rise on a point of order just before we get into the details of the order that you have called out on Election of Speaker and Deputy Speaker of the Senate. I rise pursuant to Standing Order No. 4 that deals with the Election of Speaker. I want to also deal with it alongside Article 98 of the Constitution of Kenya that defines the constitution of this Senate. The Senate comprises of 47 elected Senators plus a number that shall be nominated to this House. The Clerk is sitting in as the Speaker so I will use that reference interchangeably. Mr. “Speaker”, Sir, all the 67 Senators are equal. Once they have taken the Oath of Allegiance, they have equal right to vie for the position of Deputy Speaker of the Senate. You will note that the gazettement of the 20 nominated Senators was done just yesterday and that was less than 48 hours to the Election of the Speaker which we are about to conduct. Furthermore, you will notice that by the time the nominated Senators were gazetted and brought to this House for orientation, the period for application for the position of Deputy Speaker had already been closed. This is extremely important because the 20 nominated Senators represent the marginalized sections of this county. They represent women, youths and persons with disability not only on this side, but it is across the aisle. What I am raising is not a partisan objection.

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

The nominated Senators sitting in front of me had a right to apply for the position of the Deputy Speaker of the Senate. The foundation upon which we start this Senate shall determine and dictate whether this Senate shall always look out for the rights of the marginalised and stand for the rule of the law. Mr. Clerk, my point of order is that we cannot disenfranchise one-third of this Senate and the 50 per cent of the population that is represented by the women Senators nominated to represent gender interests. We cannot disenfranchise 60 per cent of the population of this country who are the youth and are represented by the Senators nominated to represent them. My objection and what I would like you to clarify is that we should not proceed with the elections of the Speaker and the Deputy Speaker, until the rights of the nominated Members of the Senate have been respected and are accorded an opportunity to put in their applications. Mr. Clerk, we have very capable nominated Senators here. Sen. (Prof.) Kamar was our Deputy Speaker in the last Senate. I look across the aisle and see the Senator sitting on the Deputy Majority Leader Chair, whose composure and outlook shows that she can be a very good Deputy Speaker. Let us create an opportunity and a window for them to apply and then we do the right thing. I know someone will argue that it was the work of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to gazette the nominated Senators. The Senate cannot take wrong decisions because IEBC took the wrong decisions. Mr. Clerk, another objection is that applications were to be done 48 hours to this election. You amended it unilaterally in your notice and put the deadline to 2.30 p.m. of yesterday. I am not complaining about that. Whether it was at 2.30 p.m., the nominated Senators still did not have an opportunity to apply. As a House, we cannot do things unprocedurally and trample on the rights of our women and youth, simply because the IEBC decided to be lazy and run away from their duty. You have seen the kind of mess the IEBC has brought to this country. Mr. Clerk, let the foundation of this Senate, which some of us have sat in for quite some time, not be of impunity and denying the rights of our women and youth. It would be important the Clerk rules on this. My prayer would be that this exercise and this Order be suspended until everyone has been given an opportunity to participate in the rightful manner.

On a point of order, Mr. Clerk.

Hon. Senators, we will need to put all the microphones off. There will be opportunities to speak. I will have to go either way.

Sen. Murkomen, proceed.

(Sen. Murkomen

On a point of order, Mr. Clerk.

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

Hon. Senators, I will hear Sen. Murkomen.

(Sen. Murkomen

On a point of Order, Mr. Clerk.

Hon. Senators, please turn off your microphones. I will need to rule shortly. However, before I do so, I will need to hear two more representations on either side. Unfortunately, we cannot take more. The Business for today is defined in the Constitution and in the Standing Orders. Therefore, I am only able to hear two representations from either side. Thereafter, we will be ready to rule. Sen. Dullo, proceed.

Thank you, Mr. Clerk. The matters raised by Sen. M. Kajwang are weighty and should not be taken for granted. Secondly, we cannot wait for the Speaker to be sworn in and then we raise them. The Standing Orders are clear, but there is also a lacuna in these Orders where Parliament did not expect this kind of a situation to arise. Before we move on, it is really important that the Clerk decides on this.

Hon. Members, please turn off all the microphones. As I had undertaken, I will hear one more from either side. We have heard Sen. Dullo. If there is any representation from this side, I will hear it.

(Sen. (Dr.) Khalwale): Thank you, Mr. Speaker, Sir. Sorry, I beg your pardon, Mr. Clerk. I can see the attempt by Sen. M.

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

Kajwang, through this point of order, where he is attempting to suspend the Sitting of this House. If, indeed, he wants to suspend this Sitting of the Senate, he knows what to do. He should go and do it. He should not hide under a Standing Order. Those are not our Standing Orders. Probably, those orders are for doing trade in fish and so forth.

Sen. (Dr.) Khalwale, you are out of order. Please withdraw the objectionable remarks and proceed with your speech.

(Sen. (Dr.) Khalwale)

Hon. Senators, I have directed Sen. (Dr.) Khalwale to withdraw. He has done so. Therefore, he can now proceed with his speech.

(Sen. (Dr.) Khalwale)

Hon. Senators, I said I would give two opportunities which was prospective. There was one on this side and one on the other. I will allow an opportunity for Members to speak from each side and then I will make a determination. Sen. Olekina, proceed.

(Sen. Olekina)

Point of Order. On point of Order, Mr. Clerk.

Sen. Olekina, please resume your sit. Hon. Senators, the matter that is before us is the point of order that was raised by Sen. M. Kajwang. I undertook to give an opportunity to either side to canvas that point of

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

order and speak to it. No any other matter can be introduced until a determination has been made to the issue raised by him. Sen. Olekina, I had given you the opportunity to speak to that point of order. Ordinarily, I should not let you come back because you have spent that time or misspent it. However, I will give you a special dispensation. Please canvas and stay to the point of order by Sen. M. Kajwang. Thereafter, there will be one opportunity on this side and then I must make a determination immediately thereafter.

(Sen. Olekina)

Unfortunately, not.

(Sen. Olekina)

On a point of information, Mr. Clerk.

(Sen. Olekina)

No, you have finished your speech. You cannot be informed after you have finished your speech. We have one more Senator to speak on this side, then we can make a determination. Proceed, Sen. Cheruiyot.

(Sen. Cheruiyot

Sen. Cheruiyot, please stay relevant. You know the rules of the House.

(Sen. Cheruiyot

Point of Order! Point of Information!

(Sen. Cheruiyot

Hon. Senators, it would be appropriate that we hear Sen. Cheruiyot. If you do not agree with what he is saying, that is okay. I will make a determination later. However, I would plead that we just listen because we have important business and an important determination to make one way or the other. Please conclude your speech.

(Sen. Cheruiyot

(Sen. Cheruiyot

Sen. Cheruiyot, please conclude your speech.

(Sen. Cheruiyot

Sen. Wambua, please resume your seat.

(Sen. Cheruiyot

No, please conclude. Hon. Senators, this is the first sitting. We are on full display of the public. We want to show that we deal with our affairs in a dignified manner. Sen. Cheruiyot is about to conclude his speech. I will make a determination of how we shall proceed. Kindly allow Sen. Cheruiyot to conclude his speech. Sen. Cheruiyot, kindly do so in not more than one minute.

(Sen. Cheruiyot

Order, Order.

(Sen. Cheruiyot

You must withdraw.

(Sen. Cheruiyot

Hon. Senators, I made a determination. Unfortunately, I will not allow any additional points of order because we made a clear determination that we shall hear two on either side. The matter which Sen. M. Kajwang’ canvased is quite clear and all the parties have spoken to it. I will make a determination at this point. Sen. M. Kajwang’ raised the issue about application of Standing Order No.4 and Article 98 of the Constitution. He said that basically, all Senators are equal and they have an equal right and opportunity to vie for the position of Deputy Speaker. Their late gazettement therefore disenfranchised them because they have not been availed the opportunity to put forth their interest. His prayer is that Order No.4, which is election of the Speaker be suspended. Sen. Murkomen responded to this point of order. In his view, it is premature on account of the Order that we are at. He also added that the Clerk’s role is limited and that, by dint of Standing Order No.3, he is not able to make a determination on this matter. Sen. Dullo said that this is a substantive matter and therefore we cannot wait for the substantive Speaker. Sen. (Dr.) Khalwale, basically said that this was a roundabout way to try and suspend the sitting. He added that the right time to canvas this point of order will be at Order No.5. Sen. Olekina spoke on inclusivity, diversity, House of union and the need for suspension, so that Senators who were belatedly gazetted are briefed and allowed the opportunity to participate. Sen. Cheruiyot called it a classic filibuster and said that the jurisdiction of the Clerk, under Standing Order No.3, is limited and it is not within my jurisdiction. There are only two points over which I will make my determination. Looking at the first one, it may not be necessary to go to the second. The first one is whether, by the application of Standing Order No.3 (4), the Clerk has the jurisdiction to make a determination on the matters in issue. Standing Order No.3 (4) states that- “When the Clerk is administering the Oath or Affirmation of Office to Senators and before the Clerk has administered the Oath or Affirmation of Office to the Speaker, any question arising in the Senate shall be determined by the Clerk who shall, during that period, exercise the powers of the Speaker.”

I determine that the Clerk has full jurisdiction for all purposes up to and until a substantive Speaker is elected and sworn in. To rule otherwise would mean that the House would generate into disarray and there would be no one to make a determination.

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

Our Constitution could not have contemplated a situation like that but that was not provided for. Hon. Senators, my determination is that there is jurisdiction for the Clerk to rule on the matter that has been raised. Regarding the matter raised by Sen. M. Kajwang, the objection by Sen. Murkomen is correct and appropriate. As it is well known, the business of this House is canvased by Orders as they are read out. At this time, the Order that has been read is Election of the Speaker. Who can tell whether we will have election of the Deputy Speaker? It is not known at this time.

I, therefore, rule that we proceed with the business of Order No.4. If we proceed to Order No.5 and there is objection, that objection will be canvassed and entertained and a determination will be made. Order No.4 having been read and a determination made---

Point of order.

Unfortunately, I cannot entertain a point of order again on this matter.

Hon. Senators, I will listen to Sen. Omogeni, but this cannot be the matter over which the Speaker has made a determination.

Thank you, Bw. Clerk. I am rising on a procedural issue regarding the election of the Speaker. I want to draw your attention to Standing Order No.5 (5) which states as follows- “Immediately upon the close of the nomination period provided for in paragraph (2), the Clerk shall— (a) publicise and make available to all Senators, a list showing all qualified candidates; and (b) make available to all Senators, copies of the curriculum vitae of the qualified candidates.” Mr. Clerk, other Senators will confirm, that we have not been supplied---

The Senator will be heard. Kindly conclude.

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

Mr. Clerk, the obligation is on you to circulate to all of us the CVs of all the qualified candidates. However, a number of us have not received the CVs. Therefore, Mr. Clerk, before we proceed with the business of electing the Speaker, I urge you to give us time to go through them. I also beg to move that the election of the Speaker be suspended to enable us get copies of the CVs and to go through them before the House can reconvene to undertake this important task.

I do not see any concern from this side. Sen. Omogeni, you are absolutely correct in the observation that you have made. We are conscious about this obligation and duty. The Office of the Clerk made every effort to publicise and make available to all Senators a list showing all qualified candidates. Indeed, we went public in the press. Additionally, we made it available to Senators in this Chamber yesterday. We had asked all Senators to assemble here and part of the business---

Kindly allow the speaker to be heard. The opportunity was availed here. We made it public and asked all Senators to be present in order to make them available in terms of the obligation under the Standing Order No.5. That notwithstanding, I direct that copies be made available to those who do not have them. Unfortunately, I will not suspend the sitting. The copies will nevertheless, be made available at this time. They were made available yesterday. Since we have soft copies, I also ask that they be sent to the WhatsApp group---

Hon. Senators, I want to draw your attention to Standing Order No. 2(2). Which states that- “In these Standing Orders, whenever a document is required to be provided or made available to Senators, the document shall be considered to have been so provided or made available if placed in the Senator’s pigeon-holes or in such other place or availed in such other manner as the Speaker may direct” Hon. Senators, the CVs have been provided in your gadgets.

(Sen. Faki

Hon. Senators, let us have some order. The business at hand is far too important and we will proceed with it. I have made a determination and drawn attention to the rules. Yesterday, we made available hard copies and soft copies in the gadgets that are in the Chamber.

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

If anyone is unable to access the gadgets that are in the chamber, our Serjeant-at- Arms are available to help you access them. Additional copies are being provided at this time. Therefore, we will proceed now.

Order, hon. Senators. Having undertaken the business of administration of oath or affirmation of office, we will now proceed.

Sen. Faki, what is your point of order?

(Sen. Faki)

Hon. Senators, we run the risk of the sitting degenerating into matters that are not at the present time before the Floor of the House. I will deal with the matter that I allowed Sen. Faki to speak to summarily. In terms of where the Senators are sitting, I draw attention to Standing Order No. 255 about sitting in the Chamber. It makes it clear that any Senator can sit at any place in the Chamber with the exception of certain seats, which are reserved for the Deputy Speaker, the Majority and Minority Leaders and Senators with disabilities. Therefore, at this time, the matter of where you sit in the Chamber is not in issue. It is open for any Senator to sit on either side if they so choose. The matter of political parties and coalitions can also wait. The business we have at the present time is the business of the election of the Speaker. Under Standing Order

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

No. 6, this is an election by secret ballot. Thus, the matter of political parties and political affiliation will not be an issue at all for the purposes of the election. We will have an election in which the ballot boxes will be here, the ballot papers will be given, the election will proceed and we will count accordingly. I am unfortunately unable to entertain further points of order now. It is appropriate----

Hon. Senators, is there a Senator who at this time does not have a copy of the CVs?

On a point of order.

What is your point of order?

The business we are about to undertake is very important. All Senators who are in this House went through a very rigorous process before we were cleared by the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), to run for our respective elective seats. Mr. Clerk, I had just raised a point of order and you have directed that I be supplied with CVs of all candidates whom we are about to elect as our Speaker. I thank you because your order has been complied with. I have now been given six CVs. What is worrying me and I seek the direction of your office, is that the CVs that I have been given do not have very critical clearances of Chapter Six of the Constitution of Kenya 2010. To elect somebody to sit in that office, the Curriculum Vitae (CVs) must be accompanied by clearance from the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC).

If you do not respect Chapter Six of the Constitution, that is up to you. Mr. Clerk, the CVs that I have been given do not have ---

Hon. Senators, please let us listen to Sen. Omogeni in silence. Sen. Omogeni, please conclude in one minute. Your point has been made.

Mr. Clerk, I do not know why my colleagues thrive in shouting. Please listen to me.

Address the Chairperson.

It is your business; if your side does not respect integrity.

Mr. Nyegenye)

Mr. Clerk, we cannot proceed to elect a Speaker before we are satisfied as Senators that they comply with

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

Chapter Six of the Constitution. That is why I raised a point of order, that I be supplied with the CVs. I need to see a certificate from EACC, a certificate of compliance from Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) and a certificate of good conduct from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI). Mr. Clerk, we cannot proceed to elect a Speaker to preside over a House of people who have complied with Chapter Six, whereas the Speaker has not complied. In addition to the CVs that have been provided, I request that we also get all documents relating to Chapter Six of the Constitution.

Mr. Nyegenye)

Sen. Cheptumo)

Mr. Nyegenye)

Sen. Cheptumo)

Resume your seat. I want to make a determination at this point in time. Sen. Omogeni has raised an issue about the documents that have been provided. Standing Order No. 5(5), which he had cited says- “Immediately upon the close of the nomination period provided for in paragraph (2), the Clerk shall- (a) Publicise and make available to all Senators, a list showing all qualified candidates; and (b) Make available to all Senators, copies of the curriculum vitae of the qualified candidates.” It is clear that the intention of this is so that voters can know the profile and qualification of the candidates. No particular format of the CV is prescribed in law. The matter of eligibility and clearance is under Standing Order No. 5 and is vested in the Office of the Clerk to determine. Concerns about eligibility can be the subject of petition otherwise than the present time. The determination of eligibility was made at that time the CV having been provided. Any Senator who does not have copies of the CV can be provided.

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

Hon. Senators, it should not be the case that any Senator is asked to leave the Chamber on the day of the first sitting. I request any Senator who has not received a copy of the CV to please raise their hand so that we can provide them at this time.

Hon. Senators, I have made a determination which I would like to be complied with. Please do not speak until you have been provided an opportunity. We are providing copies of the CVs to all Senators. Provision of CVs is the only business I am dealing with at this time.

Hon. Senators, I am not entertaining any other point of order at this time. Is there any Senator who does not have a copy of the CVs?

No, the only business is provision of CVs. Please provide a copy of CVs to Sen. Shakila Abdalla.

Hon. Senators, we have concluded the business of administering Oath or Affirmation of Office. We will proceed to the next business, which is election of the Speaker.

Point of order. On a point of order, Mr. Clerk.

I am not entertaining points of order at this time.

Hon. Senators, under Standing Order No. 4 – “A Speaker shall be elected when the Senate first meets after a General Election and before the Senate proceeds with the dispatch of any other business, except the administration of the Oath or Affirmation of Office to Senators present.”

Please, you are out of order. Pursuant to the Standing Orders, a number of activities were required for the election of the Speaker before this sitting. I am therefore proceeding to detail to the

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

Senate, each such activity and the manner in which we have complied with the Standing Order. First, under Standing Order No. 5(1)- “Upon the President notifying the place and date for the first sitting of a new Senate pursuant to Article 126(2) of the Constitution, the Clerk shall, by notice in the

notify that fact and invite interested persons to submit their nomination papers for election to the office of the Speaker.”

Sen. Murkomen and all Senators, the Chairperson is on the Floor. I have ruled that I will be heard on this matter.

gazette notice number 10531 dated 5th, September 2021, and vide an advertisement in the Daily Nation newspaper---

Sen. Keroche, please find a seat.

Hon. Senators, Sen. Keroche is new and you are harassing her. Sen. Keroche, please find a place to sit. For the benefit of the new Senators, when the Speaker is on his feet, you remain seated in your place. If you should be standing somewhere, you freeze. I have given a special dispensation to the new Senators. I have explained that we issued a gazette notice number 10531 and we also put an advertisement in the Daily Nation and The Standard newspapers on 6th September, inviting persons to submit nomination papers for election to the office of Speaker of the Senate.

Hon. Senators, Standing Order No. 54 requires that the Clerk maintains a register in which is to be shown the date and time when each candidate’s nomination papers were received and to ascertain that every such candidate for election to the Office of the Speaker is qualified to be elected as such under Article 106 of the Constitution. I hereby confirm that a register was maintained in accordance with the requirements. Standing Order No. 55 requires that immediately after the close of the nomination period, the Clerk will publicize and make available to all Senators a list showing all qualified candidates and also make available to all Senators, copies of the curriculum vitae of the qualified candidates. We made available the copies of the curriculum vitae as I have explained, in this chamber yesterday, in the gadgets that are in the chamber and at this time to all the Senators that are present here.

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

I, therefore, confirm Hon. Senators, that a list showing all qualified candidates was also publicized and was made available to Senators. I further confirm that I made available to Senators copies of the curriculum vitae. For the position of the Speaker of the Senate, the following seven candidates were validly nominated as at the close of the nomination period. They are the following; 1. Aluochier Isaac Aluoch Polo 2. George Bush 3. Karuri Fredrick Muchiri 4. Kingi Amason Jeffah 5. Kinyua Beatrice Kathomi 6. Kuria Gorge Njoroge 7. Musyoka Stephen Kalonzo. Hon. Senators, pursuant to Standing Order No. 8, a candidate may by written notice to the Clerk, withdraw his or her candidature before a ballot is started. In this regard, I wish to draw the attention of the Senate and Hon. Senators, that, this morning 8th September, 2022 by a letter reference WDM/SEN/GC/22, dated 8th September, 2022 and addressed to the Clerk of the Senate, His Excellency Hon. Musyoka Stephen Kalonzo withdrew his candidature for the position of Speaker of the Senate and his name will accordingly not be appearing on the ballot paper.

Order, Hon. Senators.

Sen. Dullo, please take your sit. Order, Hon. Senators. Hon. Senators, Standing Order No. 61 provides that the election of the Speaker shall be by secret ballot and polling booths are being provided. Please provide polling booths on either side of the table for the marking of ballot papers. Place it in such a manner that when it is marked, the candidate cannot be seen. Hon. Senators, Standing Order No. 62 states that- “The Clerk shall at the commencement of each ballot cause the ballot box, empty and unlocked, to be displayed to the Senate and shall in the presence of the senate lock the box, which shall, thereafter, be kept in the full view of the Senate until the conclusion of the ballot.”

I direct the Serjeant-at-Arms to display to the Senate. Display to the Senate an empty and unlocked ballot box.

I further direct the Serjeant-at-Arms to place the ballot box on the table of the Senate and to seal the ballot boxes.

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

Hon. Senators, pursuant to Standing Order No. 63, we will now be proceeding to the election of the Speaker to the ballot. Each Senator will be called out. Hon. Senators, when we call you out, you will come to the table where we will give you one ballot paper and you will proceed to one of the two polling booths. If you are sitting on this right side, you will proceed to this right side and if you are sitting on my left, please proceed to the left booth where you will mark your ballot, placing a mark in the space opposite the name of your preferred candidate. Please remember that it is a secret ballot. You will, therefore, go to the booth, mark, fold the ballot, then come and place it in the box and resume your sit. You will not need to go to the Bar and bow. Just walk here to the table, you will get one ballot paper, mark it, a pen is provided in either booth, you will fold it, place it in the box and you will resume your seat. Other Senators who have not been called are requested to remain in their seats. Thank you very much and we are ready to begin.

Hon. Senators, Standing Order No.6 requires that we proceed to count the votes when the Clerk is satisfied that all Senators who were present and wished to vote have placed their ballot papers in the ballot box. We ascertain that all Senators present and who wished to vote have voted. We then direct that the ballot box be unlocked so that we examine the ballot papers. Before we do so, we had six candidates on the ballot papers. If any Senator wishes to be an agent for the purposes of ascertaining the ballots on behalf of any candidate, I will invite you here as we open the ballot box. Anybody who wants to be an agent for candidate Aluoch Isaac Aluochier Polo to witness the counting? Anyone who wants to be an agent for George Bush? Anyone who would like to be an agent for Karuri Fredrick Muchiri? Any Senator who wants to be an agent for Kingi Amason Jeffah? I can see Sen. Methu. You will stand by just to witness. Anyone who would like to be agents for Kinyua Beatrice Gathomi and Kuria George Njoroge? It will be good to have other Senators witness that we are counting the votes properly. No volunteers present to witness? I now direct that the ballot box be opened.

You will empty the contents on the Table then pick one at a time and display to everyone. Please use the microphone to read and show to all those present.

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

Hon. Senators, please resume your seats. I wish to announce the results of the election for the Speaker, the ballot that we have just undertaken.

Hon. Senators, the Speaker of the Senate.

Hon. Senators. Order Members.

Distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen, I am profoundly humbled and overwhelmed by the great honor and privilege you have bestowed upon me by electing me as your Speaker of the Fourth Senate and the 13th Parliament of the Republic of Kenya. I am deeply humbled by the immense confidence and trust that you have placed on me. I therefore accept with humility and pledge that I shall perform to my utmost ability the constitutional responsibilities and duties of the office of the Speaker of the Senate for the next five years with due diligence and decorum.

Distinguished Senators allow me with great pleasure to congratulate and salute all of you; the new Senators of the fourth Senate for emerging triumphant in the just concluded general elections after bruising political contests. The election to the high office of Senator to the various counties and constituencies is a demonstration of the faith and confidence that the electorate have in your capabilities to serve, transform and improve their welfare and wellbeing. Today you are invited to grapple with the challenges and work towards meeting the high expectations of the Kenyan people.

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

Hon. Senators, I also wish to recognise my worthy opponents; Mr. Isaac Aluochier Polo, Ms. Beatrice Kathomi Kinyua, Mr. George Bush, Mr. Fredrick Muchiri Karuri and Mr. George Njoroge Kuria for the valiant mature and well fought competition. We have ably demonstrated that we can compete democratically and without rancour in a dignified race. Hongera kwenu. I also extend congratulations to our newly elected colleagues in our sister House; the National Assembly and wish them every success as we begin to execute our national duties of jointly steering our beloved country to greater heights. In embracing the spirit of devolution, I am delighted by the rich blend of membership of the Fourth Senate drawn from former Members of the National Assembly, Governors and Members of the County Assemblies (MCAs).

I note that nine former Members of the National Assembly and four MCAs have joined the Senate while some have returned after a hiatus. They will bring with them invaluable experience that will enrich the House. We are also fortunate to have diverse blend of professionals joining the Senate, including top legal minds no-less-than a Senior Counsel, scholars, doctors, renowned members of the civil society among others.

I also take this opportunity to acknowledge the contribution of Senators from the third Senate who did not return including the eight Members of the third Senate who were elected as governors. I am confident that they will continue to serve Kenyans in the different capacities. Kenyans from all walks of life deserve a pat on the back for demonstrating to the entire world that we have a mature and vibrant democracy following the peaceful general elections held on 9th August, 2022 and the subsequent Petition filed and concluded in the Supreme Court.

Distinguished Senators, permit me at this juncture to pay my singular special tribute to my immediate predecessor, The Rt. Hon. Kenneth Makelo Lusaka, EGH, MP, who was recently elected as the Governor of Bungoma County. He ably presided over the Third Senate and perhaps one of the most challenging periods in our country’s history. Historically, the first Senate was established in 1963 and functioned until 1966 when it was dissolved and merged with the House of representatives to form the National Assembly. The First Senate under the 2010 Constitution was inaugurated on the 28th March, 2013, primarily to oversee the implementation of the devolved system of governance. Hon. Senators, it is worth mentioning that at the onset of devolution Senate was sailing in unchartered waters. None of the political leadership and pioneer Senators had a clear idea what the task ahead entailed. As Speaker Lusaka noted on the 31st August, 2017, they had to ‘learn how to swim by swimming’ . It was largely trial and error first. The Senate of the 12th Parliament to a great measure played an instrumental role in improving the legislative regime, work systems and coherence of key processes that have gradually bolstered devolution implementation. My predecessors and the leadership team, guided by unit of purpose and the will to actualise devolution-initiated work systems, spearheaded a series of retreats, workshops and seminars that rapidly crafted the framework of transiting and administering Senate in the 11th and 12th Parliaments.

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

As the renowned American writer and political commentator, Walter Lipmann wrote, “the final test of a leader is that he leaves behind in other men and women for thatmatter the conviction of the will to carry on. ” We salute both the Rt. Ekwe Ethuro and The Rt. Hon Kenneth Lusaka, and their leadership teams for their remarkable contributions. The fourth Senate must now build on the decade of institutional maturity. Hon. Senators, permit me, to also appreciate and laud the Clerk of the Senate, Mr. Jeremiah Nyegenye and his team for the unwavering and steadfast support and for making the appropriate preparations for this momentous occasion. Hon. Senators, devolution as an oval development model was meant to ensure balanced, equitable and just development in all regions of Kenya. I can submit without fear of contradiction that so far it is working. I welcome and associate myself with the positive spirit exhibited and pronouncements made that the newly elected governors to change their strategy of engagement and work more closely with the Senate, the National Assembly and the national Government. In addition, the pledge and commitment currently being witnessed to intensify the fight against corruption in the respective governments is highly commendable. Kenyans are looking forward to a new dawn and expect Senators to aggressively defend devolution and county governments better. We must ensure devolution works for the people and more accountability is therefore exercised. Distinguished Senators, the critical question is; what is next for the Fourth Senate? How do we build on the achievements of the First, Second and Third Senates? Fundamentally, the Senate must continue to play its constitutional mandate and role more vigorously. Just to reiterate and remind ourselves, the primary mandate of the Senate is to represent the counties and the governments and protect the interests of the counties and hence, successfully implement devolution. The Senate is involved in law making by considering, debating and approving Bills concerning counties, determines the allocation of revenue among counties, exercises oversight over the national revenue allocation to counties and participates in oversight of State officers by considering and determining any resolution to remove the President and Deputy President. Distinguished Senators, the Senate is the bastion of devolution. Devolution has been a game changer and has significantly transformed our country. The county governments are currently receiving billions of shillings courtesy of the Senate’s intervention, to finance various development programs and provide essential services that are aimed at improving the wellbeing and welfare of the Kenyan people. Massive infrastructural projects have been built throughout the country including roads, education and health facilities as well as housing projects. In addition, local entrepreneurs, youth and women have greatly benefitted in terms of securing businesses and employment opportunities. Distinguished Senators, since 2013 without doubt, devolution has dramatically altered the political and socio- economic fabric of our country. Kenyans are currently reeling and undergoing tough economic times. The Senate is duty- bound to be more sensitive to the dictates and aspirations of the ordinary mwananchi .

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

Hon. Senators, going forward, with the rich blend of its membership, it is incumbent upon the Fourth Senate to play its due constitutional role and ensure that national Government and county governments deliver on their mandate to improve or lighten the burden of our people. Hence, we cannot rest on our laurels. We must build on the foundation already created, achievements made and strive to make devolution work more effectively and better. We must initiate and enact more devolution-compliant legislation and Bills, since our predecessors have identified a number of grey areas in our devolved system of governance. We will adopt a proactive approach in our pursuit to make the Senate an effective governance institution to Kenyans and let the Senate be their sanctuary in times of distress. I urge and encourage Kenyans to make the Senate their beacon of sobriety and hope. The Fourth Senate will strive to reach out and harmoniously work with the National Assembly. Hitherto, supremacy wars witnessed in the past between the two Houses have tended to ferment unnecessary acrimony and grandstanding, which adversely impacted on legislative outputs. I call upon and encourage the Hon. Senators here to address emerging contentious legislative challenges and resolve them within stipulated mediation frameworks, while adopting collegiate approaches, noting that these processes are intended to serve the best interest of the people. That is how tangible and progressive milestones will be realized by our bicameral Parliament. Hon. Senators, I also wish to urge the Hon. Senators to adopt and nurture bi- partisan and collegiate leadership approaches that will transform and invigorate the Senate to embrace the various political shades and interests represented in the Thirteenth Parliament and ensure they find their rightful space. Under the new Senate leadership, we will endeavour and ensure to do the following- 1. The Senate work strategy will be reviewed as appropriate to enable Senators perform their constitutional and leadership responsibilities through systems that are predictable and adequately facilitated to enable them deliver effectively and quality services. 2. Dynamic and innovative programmes and activities of the Senate guided by the need to respond to key priorities of the counties shall be initiated to respond to identified challenges. 3. The Senate will continually bolster and strengthen internal collaborative linkages, deepen existing partnerships and engagement between the Senate, National and county government departments and agencies; regional and international development partners as well as non-state actors to work closely and harmoniously with the devolution family. 4. Learning and leadership are indispensable to each other. We will ensure continuous capacity development and empowerment of Senators and their secretariats so that they constantly update their skills and expertise; and ensure

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

they acquire requisite parliamentary exposure to enable them handle complex and new frontiers of legislative and public affairs. 5. The Senate will endeavor to be responsive to emergent situations and re-ignite the manner in which ‘traditional’ legislative services and relations with various stakeholders and counties are offered Hon. Senators, elections come and go. We have concluded the electoral phase and must now proceed to the critical transitional and development phases, after the delicate ballet dance of politics. We have to overcome and begin to heal from challenges borne out of divisive political alignments. I urge and call upon our people to refocus, embrace unity and move forward. No Kenyan should feel left out. It is now time to put behind us political rivalries, roll our sleeves and together focus on building the new Kenya that we all desire. Kenyans expect from us nothing short of servant, responsive and effective leadership. Let us aspire to be forthright in the performance of our legislative functions especially in undertaking oversight roles, so that the citizenry can build trust, find refuge and solace in the Senate of the Republic of Kenya. We should neither entertain nor accept any discourse that would divide or polarize Kenyans. Hon. Senators, as I conclude, I wish to undertake that under my stewardship, my commitment to you, Hon. Senators and the people we represent, is to be a faithful and impartial servant; ready to discharge my diverse roles and responsibilities with due diligence and in accordance with the Constitution of Kenya and the Senate Standing Orders. Finally, to quote the former United States President, John F. Kennedy: “Ask not what your country can do for you – ask what you can do for your country”. We have a collective, solemn and patriotic duty and responsibility to rally fellow leaders and Kenyans to put the interests of our country first and move it to the next level of development and prosperity. On my part, I shall respect and uphold the rule of law, legality and nurture the culture of constitutionalism. I shall protect and defend the Constitution of the Republic of Kenya and always safeguard the mandate and role of the Senate

(Sen. (Dr.) Boni Khalwale): On a point of order, Mr. Speaker, Sir!

Yes, Senator for Kakamega County. What is your point of order?

(Sen. (Dr.) Boni Khalwale): Thank you, Mr. Speaker, Sir. You will pardon me. I wanted to acknowledge what has just happened.

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

However, we have agreed collectively that it can wait until after the second Order of electing the Deputy Speaker.

Very well, Senator for Kakamega County. Next Order!

Hon. Senators, we have prepared for you a reception at the courtyard. Therefore, after the House rises, we expect all the Senators to come for the reception.

(Sen. (Dr.) Boni Khalwale): On a point of Order, Mr. Speaker, Sir.

Yes, Senator for Kakamega.

(Sen. (Dr.) Boni Khalwale): Thank you, Mr. Speaker, Sir. This is a very important day. We are actually writing the history of this nation. Therefore, I request that you allow those of us who wish to congratulate you, one- and-a-half minutes each to do so. Mr. Speaker, Sir, if you so permit, allow me to congratulate you for winning this position. My colleagues here have voted for you maybe because of the good campaigns that you did. You can recall what we went through. I, however, voted for you for that and two more reasons. First, I know that you believe in Parliament. You believe in the power of legislation. How do I know this? When you were the Governor of Kilifi County and I was the Chairperson of the Senate County Public Accounts Committee (CPAIC), I visited your county amongst many others. You were the first governor to build a modern

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

debating chamber for Members of the County Assembly (MCAs). I saw that as a commitment from a leader who believes in the role of law making. That is why I voted for you. Mr. Speaker, Sir, I was touched because I believe in family and children are the beginning of a family. When I again visited your county, I saw the kind of infrastructure you had put in place for Early Childhood Development Education (ECDE) and thought you were truly a leader. I congratulate you. I also congratulate the Clerk. He has led us very well this morning. There were futile attempts to scuttle this process, but we have succeeded. Mr. Speaker, Sir, there was another form of history that was made this morning. One of your opponents, who was going to challenge you, had collected papers to run for both the Speaker of the Senate and the National Assembly. Later on, he said that he would vie for the Speaker of the National Assembly, but again he changed his mind and said he was going to run for the position of the Speaker of the Senate.

Hoja ya nidhamu!

Senator for Kakamega, please, confine yourself to the congratulatory message that you want to deliver.

(Sen. (Dr.) Boni Khalwale): Mr. Speaker, Sir, I was building my congratulations, but since Sen. Madzayo thinks that he knows where I am going, I will allow him that latitude. I would like to conclude by saying that as Kenyans, we must take institutions seriously. If, indeed, we take institutions seriously, then the merry-go-round that we have seen this morning was not necessary. Every minute spent here is spending public funds. I appeal to my brothers on the other side that we treat this institution with the seriousness it deserves. Mr. Speaker, Sir, scanning around, you will allow me to brag a little bit. I know you well. You will recall that in those difficult days when you came to Parliament as a young professional, I welcomed you. At that time, you were very handsome, but you have become even more handsome.

I am confident that because you have become older, you are wiser. Let us lead this Republic of Kenya, so that devolution works. We do not want to demand that we are the “Upper House”. We should prove that we are the “Upper House” by teaching the “Lower House” how work is done in Parliament. I thank you.

Hon. Senators, let us take at least two minutes, so that we can have as many as possible to also deliver their messages. Let us listen to the Senator for Kilifi County.

(Sen. Stewart Madzayo)

Sen. Murkomen, you have the Floor.

(Sen. Kipchumba Murkomen)

Proceed, Sen. Tuya.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker, Sir. Allow me to take this opportunity to give my hearty congratulations to you and Hon. Kathuri, who has been duly elected as the Deputy Speaker of this House. At the onset, Sen. Kathuri and I having come from the other House, we are going through a Damascus moment because we have just realised that, indeed, this is the “Upper House.” I am serving my third term and so is Hon. Kathuri. I congratulate you Mr. Speaker, Sir. I know and believe, as my vote went to you, that as a former two-term governor, you are best placed to take the business that is transacted in this House to the next level and afford the House of the Senate and matters devolution, the seriousness and commitment that they deserve. Your election and that of the Deputy Speaker comes at an opportune time when we have a President who is fully committed and bought into supporting devolution. I congratulate you. As we go forward, we shall have many more things to say and you have our full support together with your Deputy Speaker to be able to steer this House and Kenya. This is a proud day for the people of the Coast Region, Meru County and Kenyans at large. This is a moment where we shall witness the face of competent Kenyans in the legislative space of this country and all other spheres of leadership.

Proceed, Sen. Faki.

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

(Sen. Mohamed Faki)

Proceed Senator for Laikipia.

Asante sana Bw. Spika . Ninataka kuchukua fursa hii kukupongeza na kumpa heko naibu wako Mhe. Kathuri. Ninawapongeza maseneta wote waliochaguliwa na kushukuru mwenyezi Mungu kwa kutupa fursa hii yakuweza kufika katika Seneti hii. Hasa ninawapongeza watu wa Laikipia kwa kunipigia kura na pia Rais Willliam Samoei arap Ruto. Nasema asante sana. Bw. Spika, nilipokuwa nikipiga kura yangu nilijiuliza maswali matatu. Jambo la kwanza, nilitaka Seneta aliyebobea katika kazi ya gatuzi zetu na ninajua wewe umebobea kabisa. Swali la pili nililojiuliza ni kwamba, ni Seneta ambaye ataelewa mambo ya Serikali Kuu. Nikakumbuka dhahiri shahiri ya kwamba wewe ulikuwa Waziri; nikajua hapo tena umepata ndipo. Swali la tatu ambalo nilijiuliza ni kwamba awe mtu mtenda kazi tena vile ambavyo atachangia katika Kiswahili, kwa sababu mimi napenda kuongea Kiswahili katika Seneti yetu. Nikajiuliza yule Seneta ambaye atafanya Kiswahili kitukuke alafu

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

twende katika upeo wa pili au wajuu zaidi na ukapata ndio. Kwa hivyo, sikuwa na shaka rohoni ya kwamba Spika tuliyenaye amebobea katika kazi yake. Mimi najua ya kwamba tutatoka kikao hiki tukiwa sisi wote tumekubaliana na ninajua ya kwamba sisi sasa tukiwa hapa kama Seneti tutatembea pamoja. Nimemsikia Mhe. Sen. Soipan akisema ya kwamba yeye mwenyewe amekubali ya kwamba hili ndilo jumba kuu ambalo litaendelea kufanya maswala ambayo yanafanywa katika majumba makuu ya jumhuri ya Kenya na hata dunia kwa jumla. Kwa hivyo, nakupongeza na kukutakia mema. Nina kuhakikishia kwamba nitakuunga mkono na naibu wako Mhe. Kathuri ili Seneti hii iendelee kufanya kazi yake. Bw. Spika, umesema ya kwamba utakuwa mbele kuona kwamba kutakuwa na pesa zitakazotumika kufanya uangalizi. Kwa Kizungu inaitwa oversight fund. Utatilia mkazo tuweze kuzipata ili tufanye kazi yetu kwa uadilifu kama tulivyoapa. Mimi nitakuwa mbele kufanya kwa uaminifu na uangalifu na “ewe Mwenyezi Mungu, nisaidie”.

Sen. Ali Roba, please, proceed.

(Sen. Ali Roba)

Senators, I will allow maybe four more before we rise. Of course, there is going to be an opportunity for all of you to give your congratulatory messages, but for purposes of this session, allow me to give four Senators; three from this side and one from the other side. Senator for Kilifi County, I thought you have already made your--- I can see you are complaining a lot. We will give two lady Senators, and will start with Sen. Orwoba.

(Sen. Gloria Orwoba)

Due to the demand from Members, we are going to open it a bit further. We are going to be more generous. Therefore, I will allow Sen. Cherarkey to take the Floor.

(Sen. Samson Cherarkey)

Sen. Omtatah, please, proceed.

(Sen. Andrew Okoiti Omtatah)

Sen. Cheptumo, please, proceed.

Thank you Mr. Speaker, Sir. I congratulate you on your election as our Speaker. In 2007, we were together with you in this Chamber during the Grand Coalition Government. I also served with you in the Cabinet and, thereafter, you served as a governor for two terms. You are a member of the legal profession. This House is lucky to have you as our Speaker. Having held sessions with you to walking part of the journey with you, I am confident that this House will benefit from your experience and leadership, together with my colleague the Deputy Speaker whom I was with in the National Assembly for two terms. Mr. Speaker, Sir, you are coming on board at a very critical time in our country when we have a new Government, which is clear on how it would like to drive this country forward. There will be a number of laws to be passed by this House and the National Assembly. With your directions and leadership, I am very certain that our President will move this country forward because as a House, we are going to help him to ensure that the relevant laws we pass will see the light of day. I listened to your acceptance speech and you assured the country and these Members that you are going to ensure that devolution thrives because that is the way to go. We are going to give you the necessary support. When I was in the other House, I chaired the Committee on Delegated Legislation. There were a number of areas where this House wanted to be facilitated to perform its functions. With the new spirit, I hope that you and your brother on the other side will agree to work together. The sideshows and competition as to which is the ‘Upper House’, which we know, is of course this one or the ‘Lower House’ shall be a thing of the past. We want to pass laws, regulations and rules for posterity. With the guidance of your leadership, I believe this country will witness a very progressive Government, which is going to be led by Dr. William Samoei Ruto, a man who has come from very---

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

Sen. Mohamed Chute, you may proceed.

Mr. Speaker, Sir, I take this opportunity to thank the Almighty God for the opportunity that he gave us to serve our country. Secondly, I take this opportunity to congratulate you and your able Deputy for this election. I congratulate fellow Senators; both nominated and elected for this opportunity. Thank you very much.

Sen. Miraj, you can proceed.

Shukurani Bw. Spika. Nakushukuru kwa kunipa fursa hii ili niweze kukupongeza kwenye nafasi hii uliyoipata. Nimeinua mkono sana kwa sababu nilitakaa wakenya wasikie sisi wapwani ni watu wa aina gani. Sisi wapwani ni watu wakarimu na Serikali ya William Samoei Ruto pamoja na wajumbe wote waliokupigia kura ya kwamba hii Serikali tuliyoiunda ni serikali ambayo hata wachache wenye tajiriba na uwezo wa kutenda kazi watapata fursa yo kuongoza katika serikali ya William Ruto. Mimi kama mtoto wa mama mboga, ahadi zetu nyingi tulipokuwa katika kampeni zetu tulisema kwamba kura ya mara hii itakuwa kura ya malengo na maono na sio ukabila. Ninawapongeza ndugu zangu kina Sen. Murkomen ambao walikuwa na idadi ya kupigia mtu ambaye angetoka upande wa bara lakini wakatupa sisi wapwani nafasi, kwa sababu ndugu yetu, Mhe. Kingi, una uwezo na tajiriba ya kulipeleka bunge hili mbali. Kongole na ninakukumbusha ya kwamba sisi wapwani ni wastarabu na watu wenye kuweka watu pamoja. Kwa hivyo, Mwenyezi Mungu akuongoze na akuwezeshe kuiinua tena sura ya mpwani katika taifa la Kenya. Asanteni.

Sen. Gataya, you have the Floor. I am doing this purposely because we need to balance regions, but we will give each one of you an opportunity to say something.

Thank you very much, Hon. Speaker, Sir. Today is a big day for Kenyans because you and you brother, Kathuri Murungi, who happens to be my neighbour at home, have been voted overwhelmingly by almost every Member who was in this House simply because people know you. I have been a Member of the County Assembly (MCA) for 10 years or two terms. I have been following what you have been doing in Kilifi as a Governor. You also served as a Cabinet Secretary for East African Community at one time. I think this House has made a very right decision to make you the Speaker of this House.

I want to extent my congratulations to my brother, Sen. Kathuri Murungi. We commonly call him “ Kathuri ga mashinani.” He is my neighbour who anybody would describe as very sober and humble. I want to assure you that you will get the maximum cooperation and assistance from Sen. Kathuri Murungi as your Deputy.

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

We are so happy that today you have brought this reflection that you are a true Kenyan who has invited vote across the county, so in this regard as a House, we promise that we shall support you and give you the maximum support throughout the journey for the five years that we shall be here.

Senator of Turkana County, you have the floor.

Mr. Speaker, Sir, I thank you for this golden opportunity

Sen. Mandago, proceed.

(Sen. Jackson Mandago)

Sen. Mutinda, proceed.

(Sen. Maureen Tabitha Mutinda)

Senator for Nyandarua County, proceed.

(Sen. Methu John Muhia)

Thank you. Sen. Veronica Maina, proceed.

(Sen. Veronica Waheti Nduati Maina)

Sen. Mungatana, proceed.

(Sen. Danson Mungatana)

(Sen. Aaron Cheruiyot)

Proceed, Senator for Kirinyaga.

(Sen. James Kamau Murango)

Proceed, Senator for Kiambu. After Sen. Thangwa has spoken, we shall have the last one before we end.

(Sen. Paul Karungo wa Thang’wa)

Sen. Murgor, you may proceed.

(Sen. Julius Murgor)

Thank you. Proceed, Senator for Muranga County.

(Sen. Joseph Nyutu Ngugi)

Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker, Sir. I congratulate you on being elected the Speaker of the Senate. I also congratulate your able deputy.

I had various reasons for voting for you. One of them is that you got into leadership position at a very young age. Someone believed and nurtured you. My challenge to this House is that we also nurture the young ones, so that when we are out of politics there will be people to take after us.

Mr. Speaker, Sir, this is an election of firsts. You are from the Coast region and having been a governor, you best understand devolution. I know you will stand for the Senators since you know what it takes for one to become a Senator having been a governor.

Lastly, I echo the same sentiments of other newcomers. Kindly consider us. We might be new in the House, but we have brilliant ideas, having come from diverse fields. There is a lot that we can offer to this House.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker, Sir.

(Sen. Wakili Hillary Kiprotich Sigei)

Sen. Seki for Kajiado County, you may have the Floor.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker, Sir. I take this opportunity to congratulate you on being elected as the Speaker of the Senate, together with your Deputy Speaker. On behalf of the people of Kajiado and myself, we appreciate and thank God for this enormous election that has taken place this afternoon. You are a very experienced leader of this country. After going through your Curriculum Vitae, I have noticed that you have been in almost every area and position of this country. We believe in you and your ability to make a very big impact in this House. God willing, we are looking forward to see you taking note to all points that you have taken up this afternoon, together with my colleagues. More importantly, the issue of the oversight fund, which we really need to go down to see what is happening in the counties because, it is part of what we really want to see performance in our counties. I appreciate you and the entire House. I can also see that we will have a very strong Opposition. Let them be ready because we are going to drive this country well.

Sen. Chesang for Trans Nzoia County, you may have the Floor.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker Sir. On behalf of Trans Nzoia County and the youth of this country, I congratulate you and your deputy. I thank the people of Trans Nzoia for electing me because where I come from, it is believed that the Senate is for old people. I take this humble opportunity to thank them for giving me this opportunity to represent them. I am one of the youngest leaders in the House. I believe in your wisdom of leading the House and of representing us. I assure you of our support. We have pledged allegiance and we thank you very much. Thank you.

Sen. Mwinzagu, you may proceed.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker Sir. To whom much is given, much is expected. I believe you are in that seat today courtesy of what my colleagues have said. I echo the words of Sen. Danson Mungatana that sisi wapwani tunafurahi kwamba leo mpwani mwenzetu amekaa katikakiti cha enzi pale. Sen. Mungatana amesema one major qualifying factor is that competence is what has sold. It is your competence that has made you sit on that seat today.

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

On behalf of the youth of this great nation, I wish to congratulate you and the Deputy Speaker. I look forward to engaging more with you and my colleagues. I have noticed that the House is full of people of diverse skills, competencies and interest areas. I believe this is the Senate that Kenyans have been yearning for.

God bless you and God bless this House.

Sen. Chimera, I allowed you to continue speaking because it is your Maiden Speech. However, we do not mix languages. If you choose to speak in Kiswahili, you go all out for Kiswahili. If you choose English, you speak English. For today, you will get away with that. Lastly, let me allow my Deputy to make his speech.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker, Sir, for giving me this opportunity to give my Maiden and acceptance speeches as the Deputy Speaker of this House. First, I congratulate you on your election as our Speaker in this noble House. You and I have won in the first round. We won unhindered because all the 46 ballots that were cast, came to you and I too. It seems we were elected unopposed. Mr. Speaker, Sir, this is a challenge to us because when you are elected overwhelming, people have a lot of expectations in you. We must really work for them because of that trust that they have in us. I know your competence. Personally, I will really support you to run the affairs of this House. My loyalty to you will be undivided so that we can deliver to these Hon. Senators. I thank all the Senators in the House for voting me. I knew they were ready to elect me their Deputy Speaker even if we had to take a vote. Even though they did not cast a vote, I really thank them for having that trust in me as their Deputy Speaker. Mr. Speaker, Sir, there is one person who I really feel indebted to; the Party Leader of our Coalition and President of this Republic. You know the trust that the Party Leader has in me, to the extent of giving me an opportunity to serve this House. From the region I come from, I may be the first Deputy Speaker since creation. I thank the President for giving this opportunity to the Meru Community. On behalf of the Meru community, thank you for giving us this opportunity to serve in this House. Of course, this is his third term to serve in his Government. Mr. Speaker, Sir, my family has been with me for the last three days praying for me. Many of my supporters and friends in this town came to see whether we will get this opportunity. I thank them for coming. My wife, Ms. Janet Kathuri, is in the Public Gallery and I thank her for the support she has accorded me since I started my political journey in 2013. I confirm to this House that I will be committed to the oath that I took this afternoon. Through you and the Office of the Clerk, we will be able to serve this House diligently. As Sen. Mwenda mentioned, people say I am humble. Maybe it is because I do not praise myself. I can see that my character traits and yours are almost similar. Therefore, Members should be very confident that we will serve them with a lot of humility. You are our bosses and we are your servants. We will serve you without taking sides.

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

I also want to sympathise with our brothers and tell them that from today, let us work together to deliver to Kenyans. Maybe the voting did not go their way, but I would like to urge that next time we come back to this House, let us work together seamlessly, so that we can support our people. Mr. Speaker, Sir, I do not want to talk much today because we will get other opportunities. Let me assure you that I will be loyal to you, so that we can deliver to these Hon. Senators. Mr. Speaker, Sir, thank you and may God bless you as you serve this House for the next five years.

Hon. Senators, we have come to the conclusion of business appearing on today’s Order Paper. Standing Order No. 24(1) provides that the President shall address the opening of each newly elected Parliament. Consequently, the date of the opening of Parliament shall be determined after consultations between the two Speakers of Parliament and the Presidency. There being no other business, the Senate now stands adjourned until such date as shall be notified as the date set for the opening of Parliament. You may now proceed to the reception accompanied by your guests and relatives. I thank you. The Senate rose at 3.32 p.m.

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