The National Assembly was forced to adjourn its Wednesday morning sitting after failing to meet the mandatory quorum of 50 members, disrupting planned debates on several important Bills and motions.

Presiding Speaker David Ochieng’, representing Ugenya Constituency, expressed disappointment at the low attendance, emphasizing the urgency of completing the legislative agenda with under a year remaining before the 2027 general election.

Delayed Bills and Motions

The adjournment stalled discussions on multiple key legislative items across sectors such as transport, education, agriculture, healthcare, and employment. Notable Bills affected include:

  • The Foreign Service (Amendment) Bill, 2026, sponsored by Charles Ngusya, scheduled for First Reading.
  • The National Transport and Safety Authority (Amendment) Bill, 2023, sponsored by Didmus Barasa, set for resumed debate.
  • The Kenya Roads (Amendment) Bill, 2024, by Naisula Lesuuda, planned for Committee of the Whole House stage.
  • The Micro and Small Enterprises (Amendment) Bill, 2025, and Employment (Amendment) Bill, 2023, both sponsored by Barasa, slated for Second Reading.

Several motions aimed at policy reforms were also postponed, including:

  • Rahab Mukami’s proposal for mandatory guidance and counselling programs in primary and secondary schools, advocating for structured mental health education and professional school counsellors.
  • Gertrude Mbeyu’s motion to establish a policy framework for engaging National Youth Service graduates as supplementary security officers in government institutions.
  • Gathoni Wamuchomba’s call for a power subsidy policy to reduce electricity costs for export-oriented agricultural producers, enhancing Kenya’s competitiveness in key export markets.
  • Clive Gisairo’s motion addressing senior school admissions, capitation funding, and infrastructure to ease overcrowding under the Competency-Based Curriculum.
  • George Murugara’s push for a policy framework improving recruitment and remuneration for Community Health Promoters vital to primary healthcare.

Concerns Over Parliamentary Attendance

The quorum failure highlights ongoing challenges with MPs’ attendance as Parliament approaches the final year before the next general election. Speaker Ochieng’ urged members to prioritize legislative duties to ensure completion of the heavy agenda ahead.