Kenya's Parliament is under pressure to enact crucial electoral and budget legislation before the 2027 General Election, with lawmakers set to resume sessions next week focusing on these priorities.

Urgent Election Reforms

The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has called on Parliament to finalize all election-related laws by August 31, 2026, to ensure ample preparation time for next year's polls. The Justice and Legal Affairs Committee is expected to present its report on the IEBC's proposed reforms, including repealing Section 20 of the Electoral Code of Conduct and transferring responsibility for election offences exclusively to the IEBC from the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions.

Additionally, an amendment to Clause 19 (8A) of the Elections Laws (Amendment) Bill is under review. This would require candidates seeking nomination for county assemblies through political parties to be registered voters in the respective counties.

Budget and Financial Legislation

Alongside electoral laws, Parliament aims to pass key financial bills such as the Division of Revenue Bill, County Allocation of Revenue Bill, Appropriation Bill, Supplementary Appropriation Bill, and the Finance Bill. These are critical to funding the IEBC's operations and ensuring a smooth electoral process.

Other Legislative Priorities

  • The Kenya Revenue Authority (Amendment) Bill, 2026, to enhance tax administration and revenue collection.
  • The Strategic Goods Control Bill, 2026, to regulate strategic goods and comply with international security obligations.
  • The County Governments Election Laws (Amendment) Bill, which addresses nomination of members representing marginalized groups in county assemblies.

Time Constraints and Parliamentary Strategy

With only 13 months before the elections, Parliament plans to limit its agenda to essential legislation to allow members sufficient time for campaigning. This approach follows lessons from previous election cycles where extended parliamentary sessions disadvantaged incumbents during campaigns.

The 13th Parliament is expected to adjourn sine die by mid-June 2027 after completing its legislative agenda. Meanwhile, the Constitution of Kenya (Amendment) Bill, 2025, which seeks to constitutionalize key development and oversight funds, awaits Senate consideration.