NATIONAL ASSEMBLY

Thank you, Hon. Speaker. In response to Hon. Umulkher’s request for a Statement regarding insecurity in Kambi Samaki, Garissa, I respond as follows:

In 2021, a boundary dispute arose between Garissa and Isiolo Counties in the area surrounding Kambi Samaki Primary School. The dispute, occasioned by contested administrative and jurisdictional land boundaries, escalated into violent clashes between members of the Somali and Borana communities.

The conflict resulted in loss of lives, displacement of residents and heightened insecurity within the affected area. Consequently, Kambi Samaki Primary School was closed, disrupting the learning of enrolled pupils, who were subsequently transferred to Benane Primary School, where they continue their education.

Although several interventions, including administrative engagements and peace- building initiatives, have been undertaken by the Government and other stakeholders, the dispute remains unresolved. To prevent further escalation and enhance security, the Ministry has implemented the following:

1. The County Security Intelligence of Garissa and Isiolo Counties will continue to hold joint engagements aimed at resolving the dispute amicably in collaboration with the school administrators, the board of management, parents, and community leaders to address the emerging security concern affecting the institution.
2. The intelligence-led security operations are ongoing.
3. Mobile and foot patrols have been intensified.
4. Additional security personnel have been deployed to identify hotspots to strengthen security presence and reassure residents.
5. Community policing has been ongoing.

On the steps taken to resolve this, Hon. Speaker, the Government is pursuing both security and administrative interventions to address the underlying cause of the dispute. This includes:

1. Continued engagement by the County Security Intelligence Committee of Garissa and Isiolo with elders, religious leaders, peace committees and community representatives through structured dialogue and conflict resolution forums.
2. Collaboration with the relevant government agencies, including the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), to address the boundary and administrative issues giving rise to the dispute.
3. Sustain public sensitisation campaign promoting peaceful coexistence, dialogue, and equitable sharing of available resources among the neighbouring communities.

Hon. Speaker, on the issue of guaranteed security for teachers, the Ministry recognises that a secure learning environment is essential to uninterrupted education. And to this end, the following measures have been put in place:

1. Sustained multi-agency security operations, including enhanced patrols, deployment of joint security teams, and regular security assessments in vulnerable areas to protect teachers, learners, and educational institutions.

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2. Strengthened collaboration between school administrators and local security agencies to facilitate timely information sharing and coordinated security responses.
3. There is an ongoing security mapping of remote and underserved areas to identify locations without adequate policing infrastructure.
4. Subject to availability of resources, additional national police (NPR) will be recruited, trained and deployed to improve security coverage and response capability.

In conclusion, Hon. Speaker, we remain fully committed to restoring lasting peace and security in Kambi Samaki and the surrounding areas. Through sustained security operations, strengthened inter-agency collaboration, committed engagement, and ongoing peacebuilding initiatives. We are working to create a secure environment that safeguards lives, protects livelihoods, and guarantees uninterrupted access to education.

Signed by the concerned Cabinet Secretary, Hon. Kipchumba Murkomen. I submit, Hon. Speaker.

Hon. Speaker:

Hon. Umulkher

Thank you, Hon. Speaker. I appreciate the Chairperson of the Committee's response. I appreciate the feedback, but more needs to be done, as Kambi Samaki is currently facing the closure of its school, as requested in the Statement. There is a need for the Cabinet Secretary for Interior and National Administration and the Cabinet Secretary for Education to meet with the local leadership and elders from both communities to discuss the reopening of the school.

I visited Kambi Samaki after I requested for the Statement. I realised the matter is contentious because it involves a boundary issue as well. Boundary issues are emotive because they involve land that belongs to both Isiolo County and Garissa County. For us to open the school and avoid any skirmishes, future wars and crises, like what happened before. Both communities must sit down to successfully open the school.

When I visited Kambi Samaki, the officers on the ground requested backup. This is something the Cabinet Secretary can look into, as there is a banditry issue. As recently as two weeks ago, bandits attacked young men and took their animals away. There is a need to add additional platoons of officers from both the Rapid Deployment Unit and the Anti-Stock Theft Unit. These are things that need to be worked on jointly. I request, through the Chairperson, that the Cabinet Secretary for Interior and National Administration looks into this matter.

The school needs to be reopened, but it is also a bit thorny because it involves a boundary issue. As you speak, Kambi Samaki Primary School is registered as a polling station under Garissa County. But it is also a matter of dispute with the community that neighbours us, Isiolo County. As of now, we do not have any conflicts, but to avoid future issues, we must address both boundary and security concerns so the school can reopen. That is something I picked up after visiting the site and from the elders' communication.

Hon. Speaker, currently, there is no school in the area. The nearest school is 15 kilometres away.

Hon. Speaker:

Hon. Umulkher, you were seeking clarification, and now you are making a speech.

Hon. (Prof) Guyo Jaldesa (Moyale, UPIA):

No, I am explaining what I realised after I raised a Statement, Hon. Speaker. It is a matter that cannot involve only the Cabinet Secretary for Interior and National Administration, but also the Cabinet Secretaries for Lands, Housing and Urban Development, and for Education. If we view this as a security issue, it will open a Pandora’s Box, and we do not want what happened in 2021 to happen again. For us to do that, we must address the needful.

Thank you, Hon. Speaker.

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Hon. Speaker:

Thank you. Yes, Professor Jaldesa?

Thank you, Hon. Speaker. I need to appeal to our brothers and sisters from the North Eastern to avoid encroaching on the Eastern province. This is because, almost all the time, they encroach on other people's regions, cause conflict, and when things happen, they are the first ones to rise and make noise. The Kambi Samaki area, you are saying, around Garbatula, Isiolo South, is part of Isiolo County. Why do people from Garissa want to invade Isiolo?

Hon. Speaker:

Order, Professor. You are totally out of order. You are Members of the National Assembly of Kenya, and you can raise a question in relation to any part of this country. The only caution I give is that, if you have an issue you want to raise in the House that falls within the physical jurisdiction of a colleague, courtesy requires that you inform them. But nothing stops the Nominated Member of Parliament from asking anything about Kambi Samaki, whether in Isiolo or not.

Hon. Tongoyo.

Thank you, Hon. Speaker. The concerned Member admitted that this situation exceeds the mandate of the Ministry of Interior and National Administration. It includes the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Lands, Housing and Urban Development and perhaps the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC). But I think it needed a more inter-ministerial approach because the underlying cause is a boundary dispute involving the IEBC, the Ministry of Lands, Housing and Urban Development, and a part of the Ministry of Interior and National Administration.

I think interventions are being put in place to address the security issue, not just in Kambi Samaki but the larger Garissa County. We know the situation is fluid in the Northern part of the country, but the Ministry is doing everything possible. However, Hon. Speaker, this is beyond the scope of the Ministry of Interior and National Administration. It is a cross-cutting issue; we need the Ministry of Education, the IEBC, and the Ministry of Lands. Hon. Speaker, we may need your indulgence on the best approach to this.

Hon. Speaker:

Yes, Hon. Umulkher.

Hon. Speaker, I want to let the Hon. Member from Isiolo know that I do not want what happened before to recur, and it is important that we, as leaders, address the needful. Land issues…

Hon. Speaker:

Hon. Umulkher, do not escalate what the Speaker has already directed.

No, I am not escalating, Hon. Speaker, I am just letting him know that my request...

Hon. Speaker:

You are under no duty to answer him on any issue.

Hon. Speaker, my request was to address the education gaps that emerged after that incident seven years ago. So, it is as simple as either deciding to open a new school somewhere else or reopen that school so that the children from both counties can benefit. It is not a land issue.

Hon. Speaker:

You are perfectly in order, and the protesting Member is not even from Isiolo. He is from Marsabit.

Is Hon. Julius Sunkuli in the House? Yes, Hon. Tongoyo. Can you respond to Hon. Julius Sunkuli’s request?

INSECURITY IN KILGORIS CONSTITUENCY

Hon. Julius Sunkuli (Kilgoris, KANU):

Thank you, Hon. Speaker. I was in a discussion with the Hon. Member from Garissa, who is a Major.

Hon. Speaker, about the issue of Hon. Sunkuli, in a matter concerning the security at Angata Barikoi, Kilgoris. The Member of Parliament, in particular, wanted to know the

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circumstances surrounding the livestock theft incident, the death of the livestock theft unit officer, may his soul rest in eternal peace, and measures taken to investigate the case and apprehend the suspect.

He also wanted to know the reason for the alleged confiscation of livestock belonging to local community members and when the livestock would be returned to their innocent owners. The measures being taken to protect residents, restore law and order, and prevent further violations of human rights in Angata Barikoi. Hon. Speaker, I want to respond as follows.

On 19th June, an unknown number of livestock was stolen from the Kuria community in the Gwitembe area of Kuria West Sub-County, Migori County. A contingent of police officers from the Angata Barikoi police station and the Angata Anti-Stock Theft Unit (ASTU) responded promptly to recover the livestock and apprehend the perpetrators. The officers encountered about 40 suspected cattle rustlers armed with automatic rifles at the Keturo area, Ngendalel Location. A fierce exchange of gunfire ensued between the two parties. During the confrontation, a police officer, No. 114287 APC Joseph Owino, attached to Angata Barikoi ASTU, sustained a gunshot wound to his back near his hip joint. The officer was evacuated from the scene and rushed to Angata Barikoi Health Centre, where he was pronounced dead on arrival. His body was moved to Transmara West mortuary for preservation, pending post- mortem examination, and the incident was booked at Angata Barikoi Police Station vide OB No. 519 of 2026 at 1900 hours.

On the 20th June 2026, the post-mortem examination was conducted on the body of the deceased, and the pathologist formed the opinion that the cause of death was massive haemorrhage secondary to a penetrating abdominal wound sustained from the back. An inquiry file was opened to establish the circumstances surrounding the shooting and subsequent death of the officer.

Regarding the second reason for the alleged livestock confiscation, there is no record of any livestock being recovered or confiscated by the police, and none is being held at Angata Barikoi Police Station or the ASTU camp awaiting release to the public. Meanwhile, efforts to trace and recover the stolen livestock and apprehend the perpetrators remain ongoing. That was the situation at the time of writing this Report, and it remains calm. I can confirm. I am from that area as well.

Hon. Speaker, following the incident of the 24th, the Cabinet Secretary for Interior and National Administration, accompanied by the Governor of Narok and the elected leaders from Transmara, including the Hon. Member who raised the question and the area Senator and other leaders, engaged members of the local community to promote peace, coexistence, and the escalating tension arising from the incident.

The Cabinet Secretary directed all civilians in possession of illegal firearms to surrender them. In addition, the following measures have been undertaken to restore normalcy and safeguard the residents. Security agencies have been identifying foot and mobile patrons. An intelligence-led gathering operation is ongoing to deter criminal activities, prevent further insecurity, and facilitate the recovery of stolen livestock. There is also engagement of the community leaders, elders, and stakeholders to promote peace and dialogue. All security operations in Angata Barikoi are conducted in strict adherence to the Constitution of Kenya, the National Police Service Act, and applicable human rights standards.

I submit, Hon. Speaker.

Hon. Speaker:

Yes, Hon. Julius Sunkuli. If you are satisfied, you can let it rest.

Hon. Speaker, I wish to thank the Hon. Chairman of the Departmental Committee on Administration and Internal Affairs for Internal Security for his Report and answer. I wish to confirm that as soon as we asked the Question, the responsible Cabinet Secretary, Hon. Kipchumba Murkomen, went to Angata Barikoi

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together with all of us and introduced certain measures that have since cooled the area. The situation is well under control. In particular, the GSU camp was reintroduced at the border, and this has actually been very effective. Only yesterday, about 12 cows were stolen from the Ngendalel area, and unlike in the past, people from Transmara were able to cross into Kuria without a problem.

The GSU, together with the citizens, recovered eight of those cows. However, the situation remains fragile and requires close monitoring.

It is a border area between Kenya and Tanzania. It is also where the Kuria, Kipsigis and Maasai communities meet. It is, therefore, a tri-junction area that requires constant management. I am grateful that the Cabinet Secretary has addressed the matter. I think the Chairperson has given a satisfactory answer.

Hon. Speaker:

Thank you. We will let the matter rest there. Hon. Mwalimu Taitumu.

PERSONAL STATEMENT DEMISE OF MR PATRICK M’ANAIBA BAIKILANYA

Hon. Julius M’anaiba (Igembe North, UDA):

Thank you, Hon. Speaker. Pursuant to the provisions of Standing Order 44(2)(e), I rise to make a Personal Statement regarding the passing of my beloved father, Mzee Patrick M’anaiba Baikilanya. Mzee Patrick M’anaiba Baikilanya rested on 4th July 2026 after a glorious and well-lived life, just two years short of his centenary. The death of my father has left a void that no words can adequately capture.

A father is a pillar, a compass and a quiet strength behind every son's step, regardless of his age. Without doubt, the news of my father's passing overwhelmed our family with immense grief. To us, it marked the end of an era. However, the messages of condolence that poured in from every corner of the country, led by His Excellency the President, Dr William Samoei Ruto, the Deputy President, His Excellency Prof. Kithure Kindiki, the Speaker of this Honourable House, the Rt. Hon. (Dr) Moses Masika Wetang'ula and many Members of this Honourable House gave us the strength to accept God’s will and accord Mzee a befitting sendoff in honour of his life and legacy.

I wish to record my deepest gratitude to His Excellency, the President, Dr William Samoei Ruto, for his message of comfort and the support extended to my family during this period of mourning. I am profoundly honoured by the President's humility in taking time out of his busy schedule of national duties to attend the funeral of my late father on 11th July 2026. This gesture reaffirmed the President's firm belief in the values of compassion and solidarity that define his leadership.

I equally extend my heartfelt gratitude to you, Hon. Speaker, for your message of condolence and the support you extended to our family. I also thank the House leadership and my colleagues, Hon. Members, for reaching out to us and offering their condolences, both here in Nairobi and at our rural home in Igembe North.

I am also grateful to the people of Igembe North, the community leaders, the church, boda boda operators, traders, farmers and the youth who rallied around my family with prayers, moral support and material contributions to ensure that my father received a dignified send- off. To the clergy who ministered to us and to the elders who guided the rites in accordance with our customs, I say thank you and God bless you.

On behalf of the family of the late Mzee Patrick M’anaiba Baikilanya, I express our deepest gratitude and pray that his soul rests in eternal peace. I thank you, Hon. Speaker.

Hon. Speaker:

Thank you, Hon. Taitumu. May Mzee's soul rest in eternal peace, and may your family find peace during this time.

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Hon. Members, I wish to acknowledge the presence, in the Speaker's Gallery, of students and teachers from Uhuru Estate School in Embakasi West Constituency, Nairobi County; Kakawa Primary and Junior School in Mbeere South Constituency, Embu County; Dave Amazing School in Naivasha Constituency, Nakuru County; and Gichame Junior Primary School in Othaya Constituency, Nyeri County. In the Public Gallery, we have students and teachers from New Genesis School in Marakwet West, Elgeyo Marakwet County; M/Ekorani Primary School in Maara Constituency, Tharaka-Nithi County; and Bright Star Chebulbai School in Marakwet West, Elgeyo Marakwet County.

On my own behalf and that of the House, I welcome the students, their teachers and all those accompanying them to the House of Parliament.

(Applause)

Maj. Dekow, Member for Garissa Township.

Hon. Dekow Mohamed (Garissa Township, UDA):

Thank you, Hon. Speaker. I rise to remind you that about two months ago, I requested a Statement regarding Police Officer Adan Hared Lohos, who has been missing for about three years. A response was subsequently brought to the House.

Hon. Speaker:

Chairperson Tongoyo, that reminder is directed at you.

Hon. Dekow Mohamed (Garissa Township, UDA):

Yes, Hon. Speaker. You directed that the Cabinet Secretary be invited to appear before the Committee to pursue the matter further.

It is important to note that the response provided was not read on the Floor of the House. This is because, after consultations between the Chairperson, you, and me, we agreed that it was inadequate. The Cabinet Secretary was, therefore, expected to appear before the Committee to address the outstanding issues. To date, we have not received any communication from the Chairperson.

Hon. Speaker:

Hon. Tongoyo, when is the Cabinet Secretary appearing before your committee?

Hon. Speaker, if you may recall, just before we proceeded on recess, I informed the House that the Cabinet Secretary was unable to appear because he was attending a Cabinet meeting. Today, we have written to invite him to appear before the Committee on Thursday after next week. This is not the only matter pending before him. There are about 13 Statements requiring his attention.

I therefore request my colleague to be a little patient as we make every effort to ensure that the Cabinet Secretary appears before the Committee so that we can conclude all these matters and report to the House.

Hon. Speaker:

When exactly is the sitting?

On Thursday of next week, Hon. Speaker.

Hon. Speaker:

Thursday of the following week.

Exactly. We deliberately avoided Tuesday so that he would not cite a Cabinet meeting as an excuse. We are equally under pressure.

Hon. Speaker:

Please inform the Hon. Member accordingly.

Hon. John Kiarie (Dagoretti South, UDA):

I will.

Hon. Speaker:

Next Order. Hold on. Yes, Hon. Emathe. Give him the microphone.

Hon. John Emathe (Turkana Central, UDA):

Thank you, Hon. Speaker. I rise to remind you that on 30th June 2026, you directed that I be furnished with a response regarding the operationalisation of the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Hub in

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Turkana Central. The ICT Hub was completed in 2023 as part of a World Bank-funded project implemented by the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA).

At the moment, it is lying idle. It would be the first ICT Hub in Turkana County since we came into Government. As we discuss ICT Hubs, students attending these proceedings would directly benefit from such facilities. However, there is currently no operational ICT Hub anywhere in Turkana County. This would be the first.

Hon. Speaker:

Hon. KJ, when can you respond? Give Hon. KJ the microphone.

Hon. Speaker, you had already issued directions on this matter. The Committee has indeed burnt the midnight oil. God willing, we shall present the response next week. However, on Thursday, we shall be holding a Baraza, and the Committee may not have sufficient time to process all the feedback we are receiving from the Ministry.

Hon. Speaker, the Ministry informed us of a slight correction. In the overall plan for the digital superhighway, Turkana is one of the biggest beneficiaries of the fibre-optic cable linking our Republic to the Republic of South Sudan. More progress has been made, and we have taken cognisance of the border issues in the Ilemi Triangle. This has allowed us to install two fibre-optic cables: a Kenyan cable extending to where Kenya believes its border reaches, and another from South Sudan extending to the point where Sudan contests the border.

This is a good question that the Hon. Member has brought to the House. It affects many other Members. We shall present a very comprehensive response, God willing, next week.

Thank you, Hon. Speaker.

Hon. Speaker:

Thank you, Hon. KJ. Next Order.

MOTION

ADOPTION OF REPORT ON PETITION ON MANAGEMENT OF HAEMOPHILIA AND OTHER BLEEDING DISORDERS

THAT, this House adopts the Report of the Departmental Committee on Health on its consideration of Public Petition No. 01 of 2026 regarding management of Haemophilia and other bleeding disorders among patients and children in the country, laid on the Table of the House on Tuesday, 23rd June 2026.

(Debate concluded on 28.7.2026) (Several Members were upstanding)

Hon. Speaker:

Hon. Members on their feet, take your seats. Hon. CPA Julius Rutto, take your seat. Is that Hon. Mutunga, Hon. Robert Mbui or Hon. Wanjala? Take your seats. (Question put and agreed to)

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BILL

Second Reading

THE COUNTY ASSEMBLY SERVICES (AMENDMENT) BILL

(Senate Bill No. 34 of 2023)

Hon. Speaker:

Chairperson of the Departmental Committee on Labour. Is that Hon. Karemba?

Hon. Members:

No.

Hon. Speaker:

Who is the Chairperson? Is it Hon. Ken Chonga? Where is he? We will stand it down for now. Go to Order No. 10. (Bill deferred)

MOTION

NOTING OF REPORT OF KENYA DELEGATION TO 151ST IPU ASSEMBLY

Hon. Speaker:

Who was the Chair of the delegation to the IPU? Is it Hon. Irene Mayaka? No, it is not. Is it Hon. Millie Odhiambo-Mabona? She is not here.

Go to the next Order.

BILL

Second Reading

THE SPORTS (AMENDMENT) BILL

(National Assembly Bill No. 5 of 2026)

Hon. Speaker:

Hon. Irene Mayaka, are you ready to move this Bill?

Hon. Irene Mayaka (Nominated, ODM):

Hon. Speaker, I beg to move that the Sports (Amendment) Bill (National Assembly Bill No. 5 of 2026) be now read a Second Time.

The main objective of this Bill is to criminalise sports and match manipulation, as well as match fixing, in Kenya. We propose amending a couple of sections of the principal Act to align with our intended approach. I will mention the specific sections that are being amended. We are amending Section 2 to introduce the definition of sports manipulation. We are also amending Section 3 of the principal Act to provide the specific provisions relating to sports manipulation. Clause 5 of the Bill introduces the specific fines that will be charged.

I want to provide background on this Bill. Its legislative intent arises from numerous cases of match-fixing and other criminal offences within the sports fraternity. Yet, we do not have any specific law that criminalises these particular vices. For that reason, and having looked at the various laws from other countries and regulations from federations across the world, I thought it fit that Kenya should also enact such a law. Sports integrity is very important in our country because we seek to nurture sports and talent. We also want to ensure that our young and talented sportsmen and sportswomen are not exploited by individuals who manipulate the system for their own benefit.

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[The Speaker (Hon. Moses Wetang’ula) left the Chair]

[The Temporary Speaker (Hon. Omboko Milemba) in the Chair] We received a lot of feedback from the public during public participation on this Bill. I know that the Departmental Committee on Sports and Culture will present the feedback received. At this point, I thank the public for the overwhelming support accorded to this proposed piece of legislation. The foundation of sports is fairness, transparency and public confidence. Sports integrity is currently at risk. Increasing reports, both globally and locally, indicate a growing number of attempts to influence sporting outcomes improperly. Market pressures have also introduced risks into sports. From a national interest perspective, this Bill seeks to protect the integrity of athletics, clubs, funds and sponsors.

Given the legal context and existing gaps, there is a regulatory deficit. The current Sports Act (Cap. 223) does not contain any explicit provisions criminalising sports manipulation. There are also enforcement barriers. Current mechanisms rely on disciplinary action by sports associations, which lacks the weight of criminal law. Most federations in Kenya, including football, basketball, netball, volleyball and athletics, conduct internal investigations when they face such issues. This does not give any particular third-party aspect or ensure that there is actual fairness in a criminal case.

There is also a structural weakness. Internal sporting bodies are often unequipped to handle organised criminal syndicates. This is where the criminal aspect comes into play, enabling the country's specific criminal investigative agencies to conduct proper investigations. The solution proposed in this Bill is to bridge that gap by introducing criminal sanctions and stronger investigative powers.

I considered amending various Statutes, including the Sports Act, the Penal Code and other criminal laws. However, it was easier to amend the Sports Act (Cap. 223) so that the definition of sports manipulation and the criminal offences are in one law. Looking at the current Kenyan legal framework, the Sports Act, 2013, governs sports administration but contains no explicit offences relating to match-fixing. The Penal Code (Cap. 63) covers general fraud. For example, Section 315 of the Sports Act addresses cheating, but it has no dedicated match-fixing provision. The Anti-Doping Act focuses on banned substances, but does not address match manipulation.

As I had alluded to, different sports federations currently rely on internal sanctions, bans, and suspensions due to the existing legal gap. However, there is no specific criminal investigative framework, making the process non-uniform and, in some instances, unfair. Section 61 of the Betting, Lotteries and Gaming Act (Cap. 131) prohibits cheating in betting. A maximum penalty of six months is minimal. I have looked at the current international standards, especially of the popular sporting activities we have in this country. The FIFA Code of Ethics, 2023 prohibits any involvement in match manipulation and requires reporting of corruption approaches. The FIFA Disciplinary Code, 2023 imposes a minimum five-year ban and a fine of €100,000 for anyone manipulating a match.

Hon. Temporary Speaker, I know you are aware of the Macolin Convention because you are a sports person. It is the first international treaty against sports manipulation. It urges states, sports bodies and betting operators to cooperate to prevent, detect and sanction fixed competitions. Let me give the example of Italy as one of the countries that has laws criminalising match-fixing. The Italian Law 401/1989 criminalises fraud in sports competitions, offering, promising or accepting money or other advantages to alter any event's outcome. Penalties include two to six years imprisonment and fines for match-fixing. The Italian Football Federation Justice Code also puts a lot more emphasis on this law. A notable

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example is the 2006 Calciopoli Scandal, which saw some top clubs and officials face sporting and criminal sanctions.

Hon. Temporary Speaker, you remember the very famous story of some of the famous clubs like Juventus, which had to be relegated. This is one of the very stringent cases that actually made some of the big clubs to fall. There is also a case study of Brazil. Brazil's General Sports Law explicitly prohibits manipulation of sports results. Any bets tied to fixed outcomes are declared void.

Let me give examples of cases we have had in Kenya that actually motivated me to bring this particular draft law. Some of the cases we have had are like the one that involved Nairobi City Stars. Multiple attempts to fix City Stars Premier League matches between 2021 and 2023 were uncovered. This was the fourth attempt in three years for the club. In 2023, police arrested three suspects - Kenyan, Ugandan and Russian - following a sting operation. They had offered City Stars players a huge sum of money so that they could throw away a match. YouTube has some of the cases that we have had in our country, of match-fixing. They are very sad because they resulted in killing dreams of young people who wanted to do their best in this particular field.

Clause 3 of the Bill forms the legal foundation and definition of manipulation. It empowers Sports Kenya with statutory authority. It defines the unified reporting hub and how it will look like. It provides for inter-agency collaboration, authorities, joint investigations between Sports Kenya and national investigative agencies, statutory timelines requiring that all investigations be completed within a strict six-month period to ensure efficiency and justice, and systemic oversight. It provides for centralised monitoring of sports integrity under a single accountable statutory body. We have introduced penalties. We received a lot of feedback from the public on penalties. They felt that the penalties that I had introduced are not stringent enough. Therefore, without pre-empting debate, the Departmental Committee on Sports and Culture will give us an account of some of the feedback they received from different Kenyans.

In terms of professional consequences, we have bans and forfeitures. Again, this is very important. Some of the amendments that I have introduced are match forfeiture, organisational ineligibility, lifetime prohibitions and disciplinary harmony. On strategic impact, accountability and national reputation, Clause 4 of the Bill gives a detailed view of what exactly that will entail. It provides for due process via appeals, the Sports Disputes Tribunal, global alignment, ethical governance and fiscal neutrality.

I just wish to appeal to the Members of this House to support this Bill. As Members of Parliament, we represent people at constituencies, counties and the whole county country at large that has very many sportspeople. When I speak about sports, I am not only looking at the football space, but I am also looking at basketball, netball, athletics spaces and all the sports that we can think about in this world. As Members of the National Assembly, let us take the frontline stage in ensuring that we protect sports integrity in this country. This will ensure that we clear the path and make sure that sports integrity in our country is at the forefront. We should prevent anyone who seeks to prevent young people of our country from having a fair chance at improving, nurturing and growing their talents. There should be no fear that someone who has deep pockets can come and manipulate our young people’s opportunities.

With those remarks, I beg to move and request Hon. Charles Nguna to second.

The Temporary Speaker (Hon. Omboko Milemba):

Hon. Members, before Hon. Charles seconds, let me acknowledge, in the Speaker's Gallery and the Public Gallery, the presence of students from the following schools:

1. Kamasai School from Marakwet West Constituency, Elgeyo Marakwet County.

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2. Lelit Primary Junior School from Moiben Constituency, Uasin Gishu County.
3. Meteitei Secondary School from Tinderet Constituency, Nandi County.
4. Gwakarigu Secondary School from Mbeere South Constituency, Embu County.
5. Moi Amalo Senior School from Kuresoi South Constituency, Nakuru County.

On behalf of the Members of this House, I welcome the students to this honourable House.

You may proceed to second, Hon. Nguna.

Hon. Charles Nguna (Mwingi West, WDM):

Thank you, Hon. Temporary Speaker. Before I begin seconding this Bill, let me take this opportunity to welcome the students.

The Temporary Speaker (Hon. Omboko Milemba):

Thank you. Proceed.

Hon. Charles Nguna (Mwingi West, WDM):

I especially welcome the students from Mbeere, who are my neighbours. As you know, I come from Mwingi West and Mbeere borders Mwingi West Constituency. I also welcome those from Moiben, Marakwet West and Tinderet. I have been to their constituencies. I welcome them to the National Assembly. This is where we legislate and allocate resources for development countrywide.

Let me begin by congratulating and appreciating Hon. Irene Mayaka for coming up with such a legislative proposal to bring integrity and transparency to the sports fraternity. At the outset, it is worth noting that Hon. Irene Mayaka has set records. I congratulate the gracious Lady. If at all the people of Nyamira are listening, they should give her an opportunity to serve as the County Woman Representative in this august House. I wish her success in her journey. Let me also take this opportunity to inform ODM that it has one of the best legislators in this country in Hon. Irene Mayaka.

It is worth noting that we have walked a long journey together in coming up with this Bill. It is also worth noting that Hon. Irene Mayaka is a Manchester United fan and I am an Arsenal fan. We are passionate. We have fought since we were at university and when we used to be in school. You could see the passion we had for football. Hon. Irene Mayaka has come up with this legislative proposal to clean up the mess in the sports industry.

The Bill seeks to amend the Sports Act (Cap. 223) by doing four specific things. One, it is going to criminalise acts of manipulation of sports competition. Two, it is going to grant Sports Kenya the express mandate to receive reports and conduct investigation when it comes to issues of sports manipulation. Three, which is very important, is that it is going to establish strict six-month timeline for the conclusion of investigation. As you are aware, most of the issues that are taken to court sometimes end up taking years to be determined. This Bill specifies a strict timeline within which to conclude an investigation and everything else pertaining to such matters.

Fourth, it provides for severe penalties, including imprisonment, fines and forfeiture of games. Athletes and clubs, even fans and sponsors, always advocate for fairness and transparency as far as competitions are concerned. We noted that there are existing gaps in the current legislation. When it comes to issues of regulatory deficit, the existing law does not contain explicit provision to criminalise sports manipulation. That is why we want this Bill to pass. Then, of course, the current mechanism relies on association level and disciplinary actions which lack the weight of criminal law.

If you look at the current situation, the Sports Act, 2013 governs sports administration, but it does not explicitly address issues of match-fixing offences in our nation. The Penal Code (Cap. 63) covers general fraud like cheating, but has no dedicated match-fixing provision. That is why we want some of these issues addressed in the Bill. We have been dealing with issues of anti-doping, and it covers only bans. We have seen so many athletes banned from

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participating in sporting events but the law does not explicitly address issues of match manipulation. That is why we have come up with this Amendment Bill.

The sports federations in Kenya, which are around 40 now, currently rely on internal sanctions, but they lack specific legislation to address the issue. That is why we are seeking to align this legislative proposal with international standards. If you look at the FIFA regulation, the Code of Ethics prohibits any involvement in match manipulation. It requires reporting of corrupt approaches. We do not have such provisions in Kenya. That is why we want to align the proposed amendments to Cap. 223 with the FIFA Code of Conduct.

Hon. Irene Mayaka did so much research. She researched in Italy and also in Brazil, which is a record five times World Cup holder. Congratulations to Spain for winning the recent World Cup. In Brazil, any involvement with match manipulation amounts to two or six years in prison. But here in Kenya, we do not have such law. We propose that anyone who is found guilty of sports manipulation serves a two-year or six-year jail term or is fined not more than Ksh1million. Some provisions in this legislative proposal align to other international standards.

With those few remarks, I fully support the Bill and urge the Members of this august House to also support it so that we bring integrity in our sports fraternity.

Thank you.

The Temporary Speaker (Hon. Omboko Milemba):

Very well seconded. (Question proposed) Yes, Deputy Leader of the Majority Party

Thank you very much, Hon. Temporary Speaker. First, I congratulate Hon. Irene Mayaka as I take the Floor to support her Bill, which is the Sports (Amendment) Bill 2026. This is a very fundamental piece of legislation coming in support of the sports fraternity. This piece of legislation will revolutionise how sports administration, how sportsmen, how teams and how sports administrators behave in the space within which they operate. If you will be interested to know, the principal Act is being amended in Section 4 by inserting new paragraphs and giving more powers to Sports Kenya.

The new powers that being given to Sports Kenya include powers to receive any reports from any person who suspects acts of manipulation in any sports competition. The second important fundamental function that is now being given to Sports Kenya is conducting investigation of alleged manipulation in sports competition, in collaboration with other investigative agencies. Sports Kenya is being given new important powers.

The other power that is being given to Sports Kenya in the realm of stopping manipulation of sporting activities include investigations referred to in subsection 1 (pb), which shall be conducted within six months. There is a limitation on time. Cases have dragged in court for many years over such allegations. Hon. Irene Mayaka, in her graciousness, has said that we must do it within six months. Fundamentally, are the changes that are coming in when we look at Section 64 of the principal Act. The mover of the Bill is introducing Section 64A, which is very fundamental.

A person who participates directly or indirectly or aids, enables or assists in the manipulation of a sports competition commits an offence and shall be liable, on conviction, to imprisonment for a term not exceeding one year or to a fine not exceeding Ksh1 million. I would have suggested Ksh5 million but Hon. Irene Mayaka thinks Ksh1 million is sufficient even though it is easy to come by Ksh1 million nowadays. We should have made it Ksh5 million. A team trains, people invest money, invest energy, invest a lot of things and then, come to a match in a tournament, and one person—a coach, an administrator or a player— compromises the whole team by colluding with some people. You therefore lose a match

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because that person will be given money at the end of it. That is an offence. It is criminal and it must be stopped. I like the way Hon. Irene Mayaka has put it here.

Again, in Section 64A(2), where a professional sportsperson—I like the word ‘professional sportsperson’—or a club engages in the conduct described in Section 1, the club or the association to which they belong may be sanctioned with the forfeiture of the match in question or may be declared ineligible to participate. The one who compromises and the one who is compromised will be punished. The one who compromises is being dealt with in Section

2. Hon. Temporary Speaker, you are a sports person. I do not know whether it is true. I hear there was a time when Gor Mahia was playing against AFC Leopards…

The Temporary Speaker (Hon. Omboko Milemba):

It was Sudan.

Yes, Sudan. Kenya lost the match because one of the players, I do not know whether it was the goalkeeper or another player, had taken a bribe and the match was lost. This Bill proposes that when such a case arises, the person who has been manipulated must be jailed and fined. The person who manipulated them must also face the consequences. That is why Part II is very important.

Part III, deals with situations where the offender is a club. Sometimes clubs sit down and plan to manipulate matches, or they agree to be manipulated. Such clubs must also be sanctioned. My friend, Hon. Oundo, is a ‘professor’ and a very able debater whom I hope the residents of Funyula will re-elect on a United Democratic Alliance (UDA) ticket. Where he is going, he will lose but if he vies on a UDA ticket, or on the Broad-based arrangement, he might win. I know that he is a man of integrity and would never want to see sports manipulated. Therefore, I believe he will support the provision that says where an offender gains any proceeds or benefits as a result of sports manipulation, those proceeds shall be forfeited. Whatever amount you receive, you must forfeit it because crime does not pay.

We must ensure that sports manipulation and those who engage in it never benefit from the proceeds of their crimes. The money must be forfeited and recovered. These are fundamental changes. I want to thank Hon. Irene Mayaka for bringing this Bill. If you read it, you will realise that it makes sense. It is clear, practical and necessary. If something is good, it does not need to be fixed. I wish you could bring the Committee of the whole House today so that we conclude with it.

(Laughter)

I say this because this is a good legislation. It is fundamental. Since it is good it should not be fixed, but rather it should be passed.

The Temporary Speaker (Hon. Omboko Milemba):

Order. You are the Deputy Leader of the Majority Party and you know the importance of procedure.

Of course. I am saying this in jest, Hon. Temporary Speaker.

The Temporary Speaker (Hon. Omboko Milemba):

Proceed.

I now want to say a few things. Sporting competitions in this country depend entirely on fairness, transparency and public confidence. Once people are compromised, we lose fairness, transparency and public confidence. Sportsmen and women participating in football, basketball, athletics and other sports should realise that if they allow themselves to be manipulated, or they manipulate others, they destroy the very spirit of sport. They kill fairness, transparency and public confidence. The greatest risk is that we discourage the young people who work so hard. We kill their spirit and sportsmanship. That must stop. I am pleased that today Hon. Irene Mayaka is placing the first roadblock against this vice and ensuring that no one ventures into that kind of conduct.

Sometimes market pressures, particularly with SportPesa and the many betting companies coming into the market, can easily influence young players to compromise a match

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or a sporting event so that someone wins large sums of money through betting. This law therefore comes at the right time.

Hon. Temporary Speaker, you know, I am on fire. Therefore, please, do not switch off my microphone.

The Temporary Speaker (Hon. Omboko Milemba):

Deputy Leader of Majority Party, please, wind up.

Hon. (Dr) Ojiambo Oundo (Funyula, ODM):

It is very important that we restore integrity to sports. When we restore integrity, people will want to participate. They will compete fairly, and genuine talent will flourish. Indeed, this Bill is about protecting talent since talent is important. I see beautiful stadiums like Raila Odinga International Stadium, better known as Talanta Stadium, the stadium being built in Kilifi, among many other stadiums that the government is investing in, including in Ukambani, where my friend, the almost ranking Member, Hon. Makau, comes from. Is it Ithookwe Stadium? Seeing these stadiums being built is seeing a country investing in sports to develop talents of young people. It is investing in young people. Because of such investment, we must protect our young sportsmen and sportswomen by safeguarding the integrity of sports and allowing talent to thrive.

I congratulate Hon. Irene Mayaka for bringing this Bill to the House. She is serving her first term in Parliament, but she has so far done extremely well. I have seen several Bills that have come from her. I believe she is a great asset to this House. From the Floor of this hallowed House of Parliament, I ask her voters to vote for Irene Mayaka for whatever position she seeks. We need her in this House.

With those remarks, I support.

(Applause)

The Temporary Speaker (Hon. Omboko Milemba):

Very well. Before the next Member speaks to the Bill, allow me to acknowledge the following the presence of students seated in the Speaker's Gallery and the Public Galleries. We have students of Ilturisho Junior School from Narok West Constituency, Narok County; Akiba School from Westlands Constituency, Nairobi City County; and Wiyumiririe Comprehensive School from Laikipia East Constituency, Laikipia County.

On my own behalf and on behalf of the Members of this House, I welcome you to Parliament.

Let us have Hon. Wilberforce Oundo.

Thank you, Hon. Temporary Speaker. Let me also join my colleagues in supporting the Bill presented by Hon. Irene Mayaka, a strong lady from the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Party.

(Applause)

Let me also put the Deputy Leader of the Majority Party on notice. I know he has been trying to court me for many years but UDA tawe kabisa. Let me echo the opening remarks by Hon. Irene Mayaka that sports should be free, fair and accountable. A team or an individual sportsperson should win fairly, transparently and without any manipulation or undue advantage. That is the beauty of sport.

Sports is about talent. At any given time, every person should be allowed to express their talent freely, without being conditioned or manipulated. I have been an ardent football fan. I have also played football for many years, admittedly at a very low level, for obvious reasons. Losing a match that you believe you lost unfairly is devastating. It hurts emotions, it hurts morale, and it affects many other things.

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Where I come from, a match between two rival teams hardly ends peacefully because neither team readily accepts defeat. There is almost always a fight. For many years, matches between Lake View and Busijo United rarely ended without confrontation unless the game ended in a draw. That demonstrates just how emotive and emotionally charged sporting competitions can be. That is why I laud the efforts by Hon. Irene Mayaka for bringing before this House a legislation that seeks to criminalise match-fixing and sports manipulation by making them criminal offences.

However, I would also like to hear her thoughts on one issue. In many jurisdictions, these matters are effectively dealt with at the federation or sports association level, probably without a specific Act of Parliament.

I will, however, work with her wisdom, noting the weaknesses in many of our sports federations and sports clubs in this country. I hope she is listening to me. In clause 2 (c), the definition of manipulation of sports competitions may be too harsh and radical. It says, “Intentionally fails to perform to the best of their abilities to achieve a predetermined outcome.” I want to be very candid. There used to be a lot of witchcraft in football. I know that there was a lot of witchcraft. Therefore, we must be careful not to punish a goalkeeper or a striker simply for failing to perform. It might also be on medical grounds or just a case of inability to perform to the expected level because one is not at their best. We must adjust this definition to avoid punishing natural failure or a lack of ability.

With the current technology, the proposed six months for investigations is unnecessarily long. What happens between the allegation and the time the player is punished? Since there is no provision for suspension, the player may continue participating in sporting activities to the detriment of the sport. I suggest that six months is inordinately long. We need to look at it in whichever way. Probably, we can reduce it to three months, a few weeks or even days. Nowadays manipulation often begins through personal contacts or communication. A competent investigative agency should be able to tie it up and trace such communication and establish the movement from one point to the other so that we avoid this kind of undue delay in determining a matter.

The fines proposed under new section 64A may be reasonable. However, while we seek to criminalise the offence, we should not make the penalties excessively punitive. Sometimes you are manipulated unknowingly. To be punished to this extent, there must be some room for mitigation.

Hon. Phelix Odiwuor (Langata, ODM):

On a point of order, Hon. Temporary Speaker.

The Temporary Speaker (Hon. Omboko Milemba):

What is your point of order, Hon. Jalang’o?

Hon. Phelix Odiwuor (Langata, ODM):

Thank you, Hon. Temporary Speaker. I have heard Hon. (Dr) Oundo suggest that the proposed fines should be a bit lenient. They should be very punitive because of what our sportsmen and sportswomen go through in training. Hon. Temporary Speaker, you were a sportsman yourself. I saw you play for Bunge FC. Imagine preparing for a match. After all that training, you discover that the result had already been predetermined or you are part of a team whose members have decided how the scores will be. It is almost like betting. It wastes people's time. There is no need to wake up early or train if the result has already been fixed. I think the proposed fines are appropriate. Hon. Oundo, you are a sports person. I do not know, maybe that is probably why you only played football at the lower levels.

The Temporary Speaker (Hon. Omboko Milemba):

Order. He has heard you.

Hon. (Dr) Ojiambo Oundo (Funyula, ODM):

Hon. Temporary Speaker, let it be proportionate to the value and awards of the tournament. We used to organise National Constituencies Development Fund (NG-CDF) tournaments where the prize was KSh100,000 or KSh200,000. It would be disproportionate to fine someone KSh1 million for manipulating

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a match where the winning team received only KSh100,000. That is why I am saying we need proportionality in determining the penalty.

The Temporary Speaker (Hon. Omboko Milemba):

Hon. Oundo, speak to the matter. We shall have the Third Reading.

Hon. (Dr) Ojiambo Oundo (Funyula, ODM):

I agree entirely that the moment it is established that there was financial inducement, the amount of money paid must be forfeited to the state as it is extremely unfair. Before we begin criminalising such conduct, a matter of integrity goes to the heart of our society's character. We have conditioned ourselves to believe that winning is everything. We have pushed our children and everyone else to the point where losing is viewed as humiliation.

If we treat sport as sport and political competition as political competition and let the people decide, we will never need such legislation. Let people compete just like anybody else. When we were young, we would attend night dances, and whoever danced best got the girl. There was no war, no fighting, no manipulation and no financial inducement. Why can society not return to that era? What stops us?

I support the Bill and congratulate Hon. Irene. You are on the right side of history, but come where the people are. We want you in this House in the 14th Parliament. Linda Mwananchi is where people are.

Thank you, Hon. Temporary Speaker.

The Temporary Speaker (Hon. Omboko Milemba):

Hon. KJ.

Hon. John Kiarie (Dagoretti South, UDA):

Hon. Temporary Speaker, this is parliament at work. I must congratulate my former colleague in the Departmental Committee on Communication, Information and Innovation. She is proving to be an effective Member of Parliament with such amazing proposals as the ones that are before us.

I stand to support the amendments that have been proposed by Hon. Irene Nyakerario Mayaka. The reason I support them is that I appreciate the legislative effort she has put into this Bill. In clause 2, she seeks to define manipulation, especially in football matches. We all know, having watched the recently concluded World Cup, what manipulation does to the beautiful game and the effect it has on posterity, not only to the players but also to the integrity of the sport. She proposes that we input a comprehensive five-part statutory definition that covers the critical issues of bribery, conspiracy, deliberate underperformance, misuse of insider information and coercion. Even if this were the only amendment, it would make grand changes to how the game is played in this country.

In Clause 3, Hon. Mayaka proposes strengthening the investigative powers of Sports Kenya. She seeks to amend Section 4 of Cap. 233 by granting Sports Kenya two additional functions, among them the power to receive reports of suspected manipulation and conducting investigations in collaboration with other agencies, as provided for in the proposed clause 3 (pb) and (d). This is of great concern to us as Kenyans. Even as we speak about political integrity, we know how emotive football can get.

Corruption is a vice that pervades not only public offices but even sports offices. The key reason I stand to support the Bill is because of the matters that Hon. Nyakerario has brought forth. She is seeking to extend the Sports Dispute Tribunal jurisdiction so that it can hear appeals that arise from the Sports Kenya decisions on manipulation. If we do this, we will start walking the journey of cleaning up the beautiful sport of soccer in our Republic.

We have to understand that we are legislating at a time when sports is changing drastically. If you look at the interest football in our country has generated, for example from the betting firms, it tells you that this law is needed as soon as yesterday. People are placing massive bets on every match that is being played in our stadiums. With the explosion of sports betting firms, we must regulate the game so that it is not manipulated by people in betting firms where there are cases of the tail wagging the dog instead of the dog wagging the tail.

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Betting has become a big component of sports globally. In Kenya, if you see the monies that are in sports betting today you will understand why it is important for us to institute these changes that Hon. Nyakerario has proposed.

In Clause 5 of the Bill, Hon. Nyakerario is proposing to work on enforcement. A big stick has to be wielded to safeguard the sanity of this very beautiful game. This is even more important because Kenya is seeking to host international tournaments and derbies. In fact, not too far away from our constituency across the road, in Hon. Jalang’o’s constituency, there is a massive new football facility that is coming up - the Raila Odinga Talanta Stadium. You can imagine the businesses that will come up as a result of improving stadia and other sporting facilities across the country. New stadia are being built across the country.

This House is on record having worked with the Youth Enterprise Fund to institute the construction of another level of sporting stadia across the Republic over and above the stadia being built by the national government. That tells us something. Parliament has to be alive to the fact that by acting on sports’ laws, it will be changing the livelihoods of the people it represents. That change will go beyond football. It will change the economy of this country. We who are in Ngando Ward are looking forward to the tournaments that will be coming at the end of the year. In fact, the people of Ngando Ward are already clearing their houses to host spectators who will be coming for continental tournaments that will be happening at the Talanta Stadium and other stadia in this Republic towards the end of the year.

I look forward to the Committee of the Whole House stage, so that we polish and fine- tune some of the recommendations that Hon. Irene Mayaka has proposed to bring our sports to a level that will make Kenya a sporting leader globally.

We are constantly reminded that it does not matter how many medals we win in athletics, football will remain the main sport of our country. Our athletes, especially our mid- distance and long-distance ones, do a great job to win gold medals around the world but in every sense of the word, football is the national sport of our Republic of Kenya.

I come from a constituency which has produced national stars in football. We create stars that go beyond our borders, like the Oliech’s and Mariga’s of this world. We have leagues and tournaments that are played in Dagoretti South constituency. In the tournament that I was hosting last weekend and the previous weekend, we won against some teams from Jalang'o's constituency. Unfortunately, Hon. Jalang'o ran away with the cup even after playing in our home soil. That speaks of sports development and the role of leaders, especially the Members of Parliament. We are doing this at a time when the NG-CDF can no longer fund sports tournaments in our constituencies.

The Constitution devolved sports and sports promotion to the county governments. We must call upon our governors to treat sports with the seriousness it deserves. We want to see governors investing heavily not only in infrastructure, but also in youth development in terms of sports. When sports people are discovered while still young, their talent can be developed to the same level that we see happening in countries like Rwanda.

I support and look forward to the Committee of the Whole House stage of this Bill so that I can give good input to it. Congratulations to the gracious lady. I know she is doing an amazing job as Chairperson in another committee. She came from a Committee that has produced more chairpersons than any other committee in the life of the 13th Parliament.

I thank you.

The Temporary Speaker (Hon. Omboko Milemba):

Very well, before the next speaker, let me acknowledge the presence in both the Speaker's Gallery and the Public Gallery of students from the following schools: Silibwet Junior from Kuresoi South Constituency, Nakuru County; Magenge Mixed Senior School from Bomachoge Borabu, Kisii County; Kinyuani Primary and Junior School from Makueni, Makueni County; St. Paul's School from

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Samburu Central Constituency, Samburu County; and Modern Academy School from Kiminini, Trans Nzoia County.

(Applause)

Let us have Hon. Zamzam then Hon. Melly.

Hon. Zamzam Mohammed (Mombasa County, ODM):

Asante, Mhe. Spika wa Muda. Nataka kumpongeza dadangu mdogo, Mhe. Irene Mayaka kwa kuleta Mswada huu wa marekebisho ya kukabiliana na udanganyifu katika michezo. Refarii kupewa hongo na kuambiwa mpira unapoelekea upande mmoja apige filimbi ili uelekee upande mwingine ni mambo ambayo yanatendeka sana. Goalkeeper anaweza kutazama mpira unaokuja langoni alio na uwezo wa kuushika lakini auwache uingie langoni kwa sababu amepewa kitu kidogo ili timu pinzani ishinde mechi hiyo.

Udanganyifu wa aina hii umewakumba wachezaji wengi wa soka. Wengi wamevunjika mioyo. Kwa mfano, watoto wetu kule Mombasa kutoka Shanzu, Pungu Vila na mtaa wa Mbuta hung’ang’ana kucheza mpira kwa kuungaunga ili wapate pesa ya kuwawezeshe kucheza na timu za kutoka inje ya county lakini mambo ya udanganyifu kama haya yanawatamausha. Unaweza kuona timu fulani iko vizuri na ina uweza mkubwa wa kushinda mechi lakini ukiwatazama refarii na goalkeeper wa hiyo timu, utatambua kuwa wanacheza mchezo wa kirba goji, goji kirba.

Nimemskia ndugu yangu akisema watakao kiuka sheria hii wasipigwe faini ya juu. Mwizi ni mwizi hata kama ni mdogo. Akianza chini, akifika juu atakuwa amebobea. Kwa hivyo, katika tournaments zetu Mashinani, Mhe. Kiarie amesema mchezo wa mpira ulikuwa unafanya vizuri lakini siku hizi zimewekwa katika counties na hatuziskii tena. Watoto wetu huketi na kuhangaika kule mashinani. Skuli zikifungwa hatuoni mechi za mpira zikichezwa.

Ninaomba ziweze kurejeshwa katika kitengo cha Wabunge ili waweze kuendelea na kazi nzuri ambayo walikuwa wanaifanya.

Hii fine ya shilling milioni moja, Mhe. Mayaka, umeiweka chini sana. Tukitaka kupigana na ukora, hongo na ubadhirifu katika taifa, ni lazima tuweke sheria ambazo ni ngumu. Mtu akifikiria anaenda kufungwa gerezani au kulipa milioni tano, ataamua hapana, hataki hongo; anataka kusimama na haki. Hivyo ndivyo taifa litakavyoenda mbele.

Hata nimemsikia Mhe. Oundo akisema, sijui, Linda nani. Ikiwa hivi ndivyo mnataka kuja na hiyo nanio yenu, basi mtakuwa mmeirejesha Kenya miaka 60 nyuma. Sisi hapa tulipokaa tuliangalia manifesto ya Baba Raila Amolo Odinga. Baba Raila Amolo Odinga alisema anataka Kenya iwe na miundomsingi na iweze kusimama vizuri. Lakini, Mhe. Oundo, nimemsikia kinara wenu kule akisema kwamba hataki hayo maendeleo. Anataka freedom of speech. Uhuru wa kuzungumza upo, lakini huo uhuru wa kuzungumza ukifika wakati wa kuulizwa, tunataka ajira, hana; tunataka hospitali, hana; tunataka stadium, hana.

Ni lazima hao watu wajue kwamba kiongozi wa taifa ni yule anayekaa na kuelekeza nchi vizuri. Anajua kwamba oil refinery ikijengwa kule Lamu, inaweza kufungua uchumi wa taifa na vijana wote wakapata ajira. Pale bandarini, kila dakika nne meli iingie kuleta vifaa na biashara, vijana watapata ajira. Hiyo ndiyo akili ya William Samoei Ruto. Hiyo ilikuwa tu by the way nimwelekeze ndugu yangu, Mhe. Oundo nimwambie kwamba wakati mwingine, kama mnajipanga kwa uongozi wa juu, fanyeni kama vile Mhe. Rais William Samoei Ruto anavyosema: Jipangeni, nami nimejipanga. Kwa hivyo, sisi tunajua kwamba mbele mambo yatakuwa sawa. Nyinyi njoni na sisi tutakuja, lakini Wakenya wanataka maendeleo.

Nikirudi katika mada ya leo, ukiangalia kimataifa, wale wanaosimamia michezo wameweka penalties ambazo ni kubwa sana. Wameweka masharti mazito kiasi ya kwamba hata mpira wa kimataifa tunaoupenda leo umefika hapo kwa sababu ya nidhamu. Mimi ni shabiki wa Manchester United. Baba alikuwa shabiki wa Arsenal, lakini nilimpenda hivyo hivyo. Utaona hapa Kenya kila mtu anakimbilia mpira wa kimataifa. Kwa nini? Kwa sababu

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umewekwa katika nidhamu kuanzia chini mpaka juu. Lakini ukija hapa Kenya, watu wanahongwa huku na kule. Hata sasa nikijaribu kuzungumza, Mheshimiwa hapa anatuambia hii itolewe. Itolewe vipi, ilhali sisi wenyewe tunaona hii fine ni ndogo? Tunataka tupate wachezaji mpira wa kandanda kama Ronaldo kutoka hapa Kenya. Tunataka tucheze mpira kama Cameroon, South Africa na mataifa mengine yanayobobea na kufika katika anga za kimataifa.

Hii match fixing na betting ndiyo zimekuja kuharibu taifa hili. Kama mambo hayo yanaendelea, ninaendelea kuyakemea. Na nikuambie, Mhe. Irene Mayaka, Nyamira msipomchagua huyu mama kuwa Mama Kaunti wenu, na kumrejesha hapa Bungeni, haya mambo mazuri anayolipangia taifa hamtaweza kuyaona. Kwa hivyo, nakupongeza sana.

Niseme, mgema akisifiwa, tembo hulitia maji. Hapa tulipofika sasa, ni mambo kangaja, huenda yakaja na yashafika Bungeni. Ni lazima tuiangalie sheria hii ipite. Nangoja kusomwa kwa mara ya tatu ya Mswada huu ili nijikakamue kama Mama Mombasa Kaunti. Tulikuwa na akina Mahmoud Abbas, the best goalkeeper in Kenya. Walikuwa na nidhamu wakati wa kina Mulamba na wengine. Sisi tulikuwa wadogo. Tulikuwa tunasikia tu ule mpira ukichezwa. Lakini ulikuwa mpira wa nidhamu. Siku hizi watu wamezunguka watoto wadogo. Wengine wanawafanyia mambo yasiyofaa. Hata wewe, Mhe. Mayaka, hilo ni jambo ambalo ungeweza kuliweka katika Bill. Wengine watoto wanaenda kucheza mpira vizuri, halafu mkufunzi anarudi nyuma na kuwafanyia mambo mengine.

Kwa hivyo, ni jambo ambalo tunapaswa kuliangalia kuanzia chini tunapokuza vipaji. Sheria hii ifuatwe kwa utaratibu unaofaa. Watoto wetu wanapoenda kucheza mpira, waangalie pia viwanja vyao viko katika hali nzuri. Ndiyo maana unaona wengine hawataki kusema, lakini najua Talanta Stadium inawaumiza wengi sana. Haijajengwa Nairobi pekee yake. Kule Mombasa pia tuna stadium yetu ambayo ilikuwa imesimama, lakini Mhe. Rais ametuwekea Ksh1.5 bilioni ili kukuza vipaji vya watoto wetu. Ukiangalia kule Likoni, kumejengwa stadium nyingine. Kule Kwale kuna stadium kubwa ambayo imejengwa na William Samoei Ruto.

Kwa hivyo, sisi tunasema kwamba mtu anayefanya kazi apewe sifa yake. Nanyi mtazungumza hapa kwa sababu ulianza, lakini mimi, Mama Mombasa, huwa najua kumaliza. Ulianza ukatuambia sijui twende Linda. Hatuendi Linda. Sisi tumekaa mahali pamenyooka. Stadium tunaziona, barabara tunaziona, miundomsingi tunaziona. William Samoei Ruto ametujengea watoto wetu stadium za kukuza vipaji. Huyo ndiye tunasema tunaenda naye.

Hii Ibara ya 64A, nakuambia, dadangu Irene, umefanya kazi nzuri sana. Watoto wetu waangaliwe. Hakuna mambo ya kuiba mpira, kwa sababu humo ndimo wengine wamepanga wizi mwengine tofauti. Tukiruhusu mpira kuibwa na tukanyamaza, wataenda kuiba zile funds na kuendelea mbele. Kwa hivyo, sisi tunazuia corruption kuanzia chini mpaka juu.

Kwa hayo yote, nashukuru na nasema Kenya imenyooka. Mliona walivyokuwa confused jana kwenye televisheni? Kenya imenyooka na William Samoei Ruto.

Asante sana.

The Temporary Speaker (Hon. Omboko Milemba):

Kiswahili kikali sana. Let me further acknowledge the students from the following schools in the Speaker's Gallery: Nakuru East Primary and Junior School from Nakuru Town East Constituency, Nakuru County; and Shiners Education Centre from Kesses Constituency, Uasin Gishu County. Let me give Hon. Barongo an opportunity to welcome the students. He also plays number five for Bunge FC, but you are not speaking about that now. Just welcome the students.

Hon. Nolfason Barongo (Bomachoge Borabu, ODM):

Thank you, Hon. Temporary Speaker, and thank you for praising my football prowess on the pitch. Let me also acknowledge your incredible talent. Recently, you have made moves that have amazed many of us on the pitch. May you continue doing so.

I also wish to welcome students of Magenge Senior School, who are seated in the Speaker's Gallery, together with the other visiting schools, to the House of Parliament.

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Magenge is one of the most popular schools in my constituency. It has consistently posted excellent results over the years, preparing many students and Kenyans for successful careers. I warmly welcome you to the House of Parliament. Here, we represent the people, legislate and provide oversight on behalf of Kenyans. I wish you all the best as you continue exploring the precincts of Parliament. As you head home, I wish you a safe journey.

In conclusion, I know that today you did not use your own means to come here. However, before the end of my term, we are allocating funds to purchase a school bus so that in future, you can regularly visit Parliament and continue benefiting from experiences that broaden your understanding and inspire your future. I wish you every success in your studies. I also commend your teachers for the excellent work they are doing and appreciate your parents for the sacrifices they continue to make in supporting your education.

I thank you very much.

The Temporary Speaker (Hon. Omboko Milemba):

Very well. Hon. Julius Melly.

Hon. Julius Melly (Tinderet, UDA):

Thank you, Hon. Temporary Speaker. I rise to support the Sports (Amendment) Bill, 2026, sponsored by Hon. Irene Mayaka. This Bill addresses the discipline that ought to exist within the sports industry. Although we speak of the multi-billion-shilling sports industry, sport is as old as mankind. It has been practised by cultures and communities across generations. Every sport is a contest. It may be undertaken by individuals such as in athletics and track events. There are so many teams that participate in sports. This Bill is actually the software that this country needs to manage sports and put Kenya in its rightful place in the international arena.

Hon. Temporary Speaker, the President has done immensely well, especially in establishing sports stadiums. I was in Wajir, Busia and Bungoma during Madaraka Day celebrations. Indeed, since Independence, very few administrations have done what our President has done for this country in a record three years. When you look at Talanta Stadium or what we call Raila Odinga International Stadium, it is one of its kind in this region. No country in this particular part of the world has a stadium you can compare to it. Indeed, it will make sports very supportive and thrilling to everyone. For example, many Members in this House are football fans.

Every time a game is played, there is indiscipline, manipulation, bribery, and corruption. You realise that Kenyans at times participate in betting. This Bill tries to cure indiscipline in football and all sporting activities. Every time a game is manipulated, results are corrupted. Every time a sport is bribed, the faith, discipline, enthusiasm or morale of the sportsperson goes down. In fact, as a teacher, I realise that student fans fight, and cause serious injuries as a result of this manipulation. It demotivates the players.

I have seen cases of match-fixing. It kills the morale of the coach, participants, fans, and the sponsors who give money to ensure that these games go on. In effect, this Bill is trying to create an environment where we will grow sports in this country. Kenya should be the star of Africa where we can host international sports.

Hon. Irene has done a good job on this Bill, particularly regarding two or three main issues. One, in Section 2 of the Sports Act (Cap. 223), this Bill tries to explain what sports manipulation is and what it entails. Up to now, the Sports (Amendment) Bill has not explained issues of manipulation, fixing, bribery and corrupt deals of doctoring results. In Clause 3, it gives powers to Sports Kenya, a very strong institution in this country, to investigate and bring to book people involved in manipulating the results of sports activities. This has been the case. Every time there are issues of manipulation of sports results, the victims have no recourse. Now, this Bill gives powers to Sports Kenya to carry out investigations and take corrective measures against those who are involved. This is very important.

When you look at the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA), the Olympic Games, All African Games and sporting entities across the globe, they have a recourse

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in the event a dispute arises due to match manipulation. Regarding the Sports Tribunal, Sports Kenya has a mandate to ensure that the Tribunal listens and determines any dispute that arises from manipulation, more importantly disputes that arise in football, track and field events, or any other activity.

Hon. Temporary Speaker, Kenya is actually a leading sports nation in Africa. This has arisen from what our Government has done. You will find coaches who try to induce athletes with energy enhancing drugs. That is part and parcel of what we are calling manipulation. The coaches and people involved are ruining lives of youngsters. They are ruining their future by manipulating them. They fail to tell them that good results come from discipline, proper training, and persistent competition. This Bill is going to treat that problem and penalise those individuals.

I disagree with Hon. Oundo, who is one of our good Members in this House. The penalties that we have given in Section 54 are not very punitive. Imagine the lives of youngsters ruined as a result of match-fixing. Imagine an upcoming athlete who has been persuaded by coaches to take performance enhancement drugs to participate in athletics. They will never recover. The penalty we have here is not punitive enough to stop this bad behaviour.

Hon. Temporary Speaker, you realise that Kenya’s standing in the international field will be at a high due to this Bill. We will now be recognised for having a working legislative Act, which will allow even more international sporting activities to be carried out in this country.

This Bill is looking into the Kenya sports betting industry. I want to speak to that because we bet for good results. Youngsters and people across the globe have a very strong market in properly run games. Imagine individuals and investors have placed bets and the sport is manipulated. They lose trust and the industry will collapse. This is very important.

Lastly, I laud what our Government has done in our schools. The President has managed to employ 120,000 teachers to teach and develop talents among learners. I would like to tell the country that the employment of 120,000 teachers is equivalent to about 24 years. Previous administrations have employed 2,500 to 5,000 teachers. It would have taken this country a record 30 or 40 years to employ that group of teachers. This is where talents are being developed and grown. We ask that talents in sports be nurtured from basic school all the way to universities.

I support.

The Temporary Speaker (Hon. Omboko Milemba):

Daktari Makali Mulu. Hon. (Dr) Makali Mulu (Kitui Central, WDM) Thank you, Hon. Temporary Speaker, for this opportunity. I join my colleagues in appreciating the good work Hon. Mayaka, who happens to be the Chairperson of my Committee, is doing.

It is a statement of fact that Hon. Mayaka has performed beyond expectation as a first- termer. That is why she has won a number of awards for the good work she is doing. The Sports (Amendment) Bill 2026 is one of them.

When I look at this Bill, I see a proposal intended to provide a legal framework that will ultimately enhance the integrity of sports in our country. The elephant in the room, known as match-fixing, is a common problem, and it ought to concern every Kenyan, whether a sportsman or a sportswoman. I say this because manipulation renders many efforts and achievements pointless. One such instance is that we know it takes a lot of time to train and become an excellent sportsperson.

If we allow match-fixing, the reality is that genuine effort will not be rewarded accordingly. We have also seen cases in which a team or an individual deliberately underperforms, allowing an opponent to win for desired future gains. In the end, the individuals or teams that are not the best end up winning. Imagine attending a match, paying for a ticket in the hope of witnessing the best performance, only to find out that due to manipulation, the

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expected outcome is undermined. I am sure you would agree that you would not receive value for your money. This reasoning is why I wholeheartedly support these amendments.

One specific amendment that I totally agree with, and I wish there was a way to enhance, is the provision stating that if a person is found to have participated in the manipulation of a match or event, a fine of Ksh1 million should be imposed. I believe this penalty should be made more punitive to serve as a stronger deterrent. Furthermore, it is proposed that any proceeds derived from manipulated matches be confiscated by the State. This is a good proposal. This provision will eliminate any incentive to engage in such actions.

Another commendable proposal is the establishment of a sports tribunal. This will provide individuals an opportunity to appeal if they feel they have been wrongfully penalised. This is an important aspect, as it ensures we do not punish those who may not have been actively involved in the manipulation. Such a process is beneficial for our country. We should not simply close the door on individuals who are caught up in these situations; allowing an appeals process enables them to assert that they were either not involved or were not the main instigators of such manipulation.

However, looking at this Bill, it is evident that Kenya, as a nation with a strong sports culture, would gain a lot from its passage. This is why I believe we must enhance the existing Act to ensure that we establish a legal framework. At the end of the day, this will ensure fair competition, so that if I am the best, I come out as the best and I am rewarded as such. That, to me, is of utmost importance. Therefore, I would like to echo the sentiments of my colleagues who have spoken in support of this Bill. I fully support it and am committed to ensuring that all amendments are considered during the Committee of the whole House.

My wish is that we should have the Second Reading completed within the next year. Having served in this House for a long time, I hope that the House Business Committee will fast-track the Committee of the whole House, so we can advance this Bill without delay. Otherwise, we might find this issue recurring in the next parliament. We have approximately six months of active work remaining in this House. I am certain that from March, there will be a reduced presence. Hence, I wish we could fast-track this process and see this Bill become an Act of Parliament. It will help our country and ensure that our sportsmen and women are rewarded accordingly. With those remarks, I support this Bill and wish Hon. Mayaka well as she moves it to the next stage.

The Temporary Speaker (Hon. Omboko Milemba):

Very well, Hon. Members. We would like to acknowledge the presence of the following schools in the Public Gallery and the Speaker's Gallery: Itibo Boys Primary School from Kitutu Chache North, Kisii County; Chemamul Boys High School from Belgut, Kericho County; Mount Ararat Shinners School from Ainabkoi, Uasin Gishu County; and, Sururu Secondary School from Njoro constituency in Nakuru.

Having done that, the next speaker is Hon. Caroli Omondi. Let me first allow the Member for Kisii to welcome the students, and then we can proceed.

Hon. Dorice Donya (Kisii County, WDM):

Thank you, Hon. Temporary Speaker. It is, indeed, a privilege to have our daughters and sons in the House. I would like to welcome all of you. I do not take this for granted. You will learn many valuable lessons about responsibilities. When you return home, you will have numerous stories to share with your friends and even your parents. I recall the first time we came to Nairobi; it was after we had completed Form Four. I see the young boys from Itibo and young girls from other schools here as well. Therefore, work hard; it truly pays off. You are not doing this for your parents or your friends; you are doing it for yourself. Believe in yourself. The best gift you can give yourself is to work hard, obey your teachers, and avoid exchanging love letters. The beautiful ones are not yet born.

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The Temporary Speaker (Hon. Omboko Milemba):

Thank you. I would like to request Hon. Caroli to allow other Members to speak, as he is representing the Chairperson. We can bring you in later. Let us hear from Hon. Jalang’o.

Hon. Phelix Odiwuor (Langata, ODM):

From the outset, I want to thank Hon. Irene Mayaka for bringing this Bill. I would like to dispute what Hon. (Dr) Oundo said regarding the punitive measures we wish to employ against those involved in match-fixing. Match-fixing is a criminal activity. Many of us here were born with talents that helped us make a name for ourselves and even reach this place. Can you imagine if everything you do is already predetermined?

First, match-fixing creates a loss of trust: a loss of trust in the competition, a loss of trust in the games, and a loss of trust in the players. I am well aware that even you, seated there today, would wish to be in the gallery, speaking about this as a sportsman. It would be sad for an individual to train and push themselves, hoping for results, while everything is already predetermined.

Also, it damages the reputation of sportspeople who become involved in match-fixing. We have lost so many talented people—people who were so good at what they do just because somebody somewhere lied to them into thinking that they would be able to fix a match and earn some money. When they are caught, we lose great talent to these match-fixing issues.

The financial losses that come with this are even greater. Sports is one of the biggest revenue earners in this country and even worldwide. You cannot mention the top ten richest people in the world without mentioning some of the top sportspeople who have made their livelihood out of their talent. It is very sad that some of those who are caught in match-fixing lose their credibility and reputation, and are thereafter condemned never to participate in these games again. This means they lose much more than just their talent. The financial impact is even greater.

From the onset, I take this opportunity to appreciate what Hon. Irene Mayaka, the incoming Woman Representative for Nyamira County, has created. She is a powerful woman who has sponsored legislation and Bills, and this is just one of them that will go into the books. In years to come, our sportspeople will know that, in the 13th Parliament, there was a powerful lady by the name of Hon. Irene Mayaka who stood with sportspeople and ensured that their hard work in the field and their talents were actualised through fair competition from the word go. There are punitive measures contained in this Bill in terms of the fines one will pay if found guilty of match-fixing.

All said and done, sports is growing across this country. Let me even speak about my own constituency. I want to tell the Member for Kibra that Talanta Sports Stadium does not lie in Kibra Constituency. Talanta is in Lang'ata. We have been going back and forth over where the Raila Odinga International Talanta Stadium is located, but it is in Langata Constituency, Karen Ward. He should be guided. He should know that even when it was being launched, I was the only Member of Parliament who was there. Where was he, for him now to claim that Talanta is in Kibra Constituency? It is in Lang'ata Constituency, Karen Ward. He should be guided accordingly.

That facility alone will provide one of the best sports opportunities in this country for nurturing talent and promoting sports development. Can you imagine having such a stadium built to international standards, only for somebody to fix matches in that very stadium? It would be a shame. Indeed, it would even be a shame to Baba Raila Odinga, after whom the Stadium is named.

I take this opportunity to appreciate Hon. Irene Mayaka for this Bill. I cannot wait for the Third Reading. I will be here again to support it and ensure that it sails through. Just as we have said, let us hasten our speed around some of these good Bills so that they may see the light of day in the 13th Parliament.

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I submit, Hon. Temporary Speaker.

The Temporary Speaker (Hon. Omboko Milemba):

Again, may I acknowledge, in the Speaker's Gallery, the following schools that have visited this House of Parliament: Mihuti Primary School from Mathioya Constituency in Murang'a County, and Kedowa Girls from Kipkelion East Constituency. On behalf of the Members of this House and the House at large, I welcome you.

(Applause)

Member of Parliament for Kipkelion East, please, welcome the schools that are in the House.

Hon. Joseph Cherorot (Kipkelion East, UDA):

Thank you, Hon. Temporary Speaker, for giving me this opportunity to welcome the schools visiting Parliament this evening. Among those schools is Kedowa Girls. It is one of the prime schools in my constituency, Kipkelion East. I want to encourage the students visiting Parliament to use this opportunity as a learning experience and as a laboratory for their future success.

I have also learnt that most of the students visiting Parliament this week are candidates for this year's national examinations. On behalf of this august House, the 13th Parliament, I wish them all the very best in their forthcoming examinations.

Thank you, Hon. Temporary Speaker.

The Temporary Speaker (Hon. Omboko Milemba):

Hon. Robert Basil.

Hon. Robert Basil (Yatta, WDM):

Thank you, Hon. Temporary Speaker, for allowing me to contribute to the Bill sponsored by Hon. Irene Mayaka, the Sports (Amendment) Bill of

2026. This Bill is timely. It is aimed at taming match-fixing. We know that match-fixing has many negative effects. For example, it contributes to financial losses. Imagine placing a bet, and someone engages in match-fixing; one incurs losses, and at the same time the betting company also loses money. Second, match-fixing encourages corruption. Bribing referees, sportspeople and other such practices contribute to and promote corruption within sports. Third, match-fixing damages the reputation of sports. As a result, it discourages sportspeople, particularly the youth, from participating in sports. This is a matter we must tame. It also erodes public confidence in sports. That is why I mentioned that this is a timely piece of legislation to tame match-fixing. The ultimate goal of this Bill is to promote integrity. In that regard, it aligns with Article 10 of the Constitution, which upholds integrity and fairness, particularly in competition. Further, the Bill seeks to criminalise match-fixing and the manipulation of sports competitions. It also aligns Kenyan sports with international standards on integrity in sports as a discipline. This will place Kenya in the same category as other successful nations, such as Portugal, Italy, Germany, South Korea, and Spain, which just won the World Cup. Additionally, this Bill will strengthen cooperation among sports organisations, including betting regulators, and law enforcement agencies to investigate and prevent any form of manipulation in sports. Therefore, in a nutshell, Clause 4 of the Bill proposes to establish offences relating to the manipulation of sports by making it unlawful to intentionally influence the outcome of any sporting event. Importantly, the Bill proposes to prohibit betting-related corruption which is a serious vice. In Clause 5, the Bill proposes criminal penalties for offenders. It also allows confiscation of proceeds obtained from match-fixing. These are some of the very punitive measures which will discourage people from participating in match-fixing. What will be the likely outcome of passing this Bill? Allow me to shed light on this.

One of the very possible outcomes is to restore public confidence in sporting activities. This will enhance credibility, particularly in sports, and ensure that those who participate in sporting events are rewarded for the effort they give to the various sports disciplines. It will promote

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healthy competition in sports which will in turn promote fair betting and make betting companies, as well as those betting, not to incur an undue loss as a result of match-fixing.

In summary, I fully support this amendment because, as indicated in the Bill, it will amend the Sports Act (Cap. 223). The amendment will strengthen sporting activities and encourage various sports disciplines in Kenya. So many of our sportsmen and women will gain serious rewards or benefits once this legislation is passed by this House.

With these few remarks, Hon. Temporary Speaker, I submit and support the Bill. Thank you.

The Temporary Speaker (Hon. Omboko Milemba):

Hon. Beatrice Elachi.

Thank you, Hon. Temporary Speaker. I also rise to support the Bill. I thank Hon. Irene and appreciate the work she has done in this House. I pray and hope that the people of Nyamira will see her as a leader and legislator and bring her back to this House by electing her as their County Woman Representative in 2027.

Having said that, I thank you, Hon. Temporary Speaker, because you have also supported us in sports activities in Dagoretti North for many years. The activities have sustained many young people who believe in sports. Most of the best teams in Nairobi are from Dagoretti North Constituency: Mseto FC, Dagoretti North Hot Stars, Dagostomas, Maranatha and many others. We also celebrate the girls from Dagoretti Mixed Secondary School who have played rugby for this country. With all this sporting activities in the country, it is unfortunate that we do not even have an Act of Parliament to deal with the manipulations in sports. That is where we fail as we nurture talents for our young people.

The first thing that Hon. Irene is doing for us is to bring in a strong law that introduces penalties to malpractices in sports. That you can face a life ban, suspension or be fined if you are found match-fixing. But there is also need for education for both our sportsmen and women. And this is not just about football but also athletics and any other sports in this country. Nowadays, sports can make one get a scholarship to go to university locally or even abroad. And so, if we do not train ourselves, recognise and report the attempts in sports, then we will find ourselves in a crisis.

Next year we will be hosting AFCON, therefore, we must fast-track this important Bill. The Bill will put Kenya at a very high level in terms of respecting sports and ensuring that we have the rules and regulations that run our sports. The Bill also brings in a better reporting system. In betting, sometimes there are very unusual things that happen and you are wonder why. If you follow through some betting companies, you will realise that they know the team that will win. And so, they push you in a very unusual pattern.

The Temporary Speaker (Hon. Omboko Milemba):

Hon. Elachi, how do they know the team that will win?

Hon. Temporary Speaker, when you bet, you can see how the pattern goes. The pattern is very unusual, and you suspect that that is the team that will win. And for sure that team will win. So, the betting companies always know which team will win. It is important that even as we pass this Bill, we monitor and regulate our betting companies. They play a big role in this match-fixing. We should have an independent investigation on the betting companies. I believe that as we move to the Committee of the Whole House, we shall try our best to ensure that we have a team that can follow up on complaints. We must work with the international community and cooperate with them. This Bill is cross border—it operates across board. There are times our Kenyan teams play with Tanzania or Uganda, either in our country or in those countries.

This is one Act of Parliament that will help clean our sports. You realise it is not just about local clubs. Even in high school, today, you find some schools decide to bring in non- students to be part of their team. You see young people flopping and people playing well only to realise that they have done the same mistake—non-students put in the field to play with

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students. And so, verification is very critical, even in our schools’ national sports. We must verify that students who are in those games are students from those schools.

We should not have a situation where, for example, you bring in the real professionals to play rugby with young students. When you look at players, you realise that they are supposed to be in campus, not high school. These things are happening and as we deal with this Bill, we should also look into our schools’ sports activities. This is important because this is the place where our young people can gain employment.

I remember when we were in high school and you were a good volley ball or basketball player, you would be taken by some companies to play for them. I do not know what happened to that programme. We need to bring that trend back. It used to help many young people in high school. For example, during school holidays, those players would go play for the Ministry of Roads and Transport.

All those girls from Mukumu Girls, Moi Girls and Lugulu Girls are the best volleyball players, and they joined national sports courtesy of such company sponsorship. I hope Safaricom Chapa Dimba can also do the same. Safaricom is supporting our young people, yes, but we need to ask ourselves how they move to the next level. The players should go regional so that our students can play even in Rwanda and perform well. Even as we enact this law, we have to agree that it is important to create a sports environment where our young people will benefit like students in the United States of America and Europe.

I have heard many of us complaining about the fine, but it needs to go even higher. When you are caught doping in athletics, sometimes you are given a life ban. We need to be serious. If we want to make this sector one that can help our young people, let us put in rules, regulations and laws that can support the whole system.

I thank Hon. Mayaka and tell her that it is not just me. I think the girls who are in Morocco right now will celebrate you. We were with them when you told them that you are coming into Parliament to ensure this Bill goes through. We are praying for them. I hope and I know the under 17 team will perform well. This is the second time they have gone to the World Cup, and they are pushing themselves. Let us wish them well and support them. They are not too far; they are in Morocco.

With those few remarks, I beg to support. As everyone has said, I hope that we shall push this Bill and ensure we pass it before we go for our long recess. Thank you.

The. Temporary Speaker (Hon. Omboko Milemba): Hon. Umi Harun.

Thank you, Hon. Temporary Speaker for this opportunity to contribute on this very great Bill, that my sister, Hon. Irene Mayaka has brought to the Floor. This Bill is very timely. I think it will restore integrity in our sports. This is because Kenya has not yet reached where we need to be globally due to the gaps that we have in law. Countries like Spain have fielded young boys below the age of 18, who even represented them to the level of the World Cup which was just played recently.

The. Temporary Speaker (Hon. Omboko Milemba): Yes. That boy was called Cubarsi.

He is called Yamal… The. Temporary Speaker (Hon. Omboko Milemba): Lamine Yamal.

Hon. Jared Okello (Nyando, ODM):

Lamine Yamal. A very young man. I really admire how he plays. Such countries have prepared themselves both in their infrastructure and in their laws. We have a great President who has put so much effort in developing the infrastructure of our sports and taking our country forward. Even in his agenda, we hear that we are supposed to reach the levels of Singapore. For us to get to Singapore’s level, we must match in our legislations. This is one of the Bills that will take us there.

I congratulate my sister. We have seen Kenya gain a lot of admiration for our sports, such as athletics. We need to achieve that across different sports. Our rugby players must get

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that recognition. Our athletics team must also get there. We must support such Bills so that we can grow our sports and create jobs for the young people in sports. The passion for this Bill does not come out of nowhere. Hon. Irene Mayaka has shown a lot of great interest. From the time she was nominated to this House and even before she joined the House, she has always been very passionate. The likes of her in this House will take our country forward. I want to let the young people of the country know that we have a great leader in her. We should support the likes of Hon. Irene so that we can have such great Bills.

(Applause)

We have the Talanta Academy that Kenya had proposed two years ago. Such academies will grow the talents of the young footballers in this country. I come from Garissa County and we have a football team called Motown Boys. Instead of spending so much time watching Arsenal, which is my team, I would also want to watch Motown in the international spaces. We also had young men called Shano and Ramos who went to international trials, but they did not succeed. Not because they lack the capacity and the talent, but because we are not yet there as a country.

Therefore, such laws will provide the platform and give our young boys the support and logistics that they need to get there. As a House, we need to match the energy that our President has, in providing quality laws so that we can achieve visions like Singapore and having young boys like Lamine Yamal. There are many Yamals in this country and we must give them that support. It starts from accepting such a beautiful Bill so that we can grow forward as a country.

Thank you.

(Applause)

The Temporary Speaker (Hon. Omboko Milemba):

Hon. Jared Okello.

Hon. Temporary Speaker, firstly, I thank you for the opportunity to speak on this. I also thank my sister, Hon. Mayaka for birthing this great Bill. Hon. Mayaka has been known to be a very prolific Bills writer. This is not just her first. She has facilitated and sponsored many Bills into this House, therefore, really meriting the nomination that she was given by the biggest political party in Africa: Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Party of Kenya. What she has done is a demonstration that she can move from a nominated slot to a universal suffrage election by Nyamira people. I want to let people of Nyamira know that in Hon. Mayaka, they have a jewel that they should protect.

Match-fixing is criminal. To be an imposter is criminal. To carry out plagiarism is criminal. Much less this, where people manipulate the processes to have undue advantage over other players or over other teams. It has to be treated as such. It is criminal. In the last five years, I have been dealing with a very complex matter at the United Nations General Assembly every September. It is where we have been debating about sports trafficking, involving football and athletics. The cases of crooks taking advantage of very young, innocent and ignorant children under the guise of registering them and plugging them into football clubs abroad. These innocent children together with their parents end up paying agents that do not exist, or agents who are just out to make money. They then land abroad only to realise that those clubs never existed, and whatever they were promised is not there. They then have to contend with cold weather on the streets abroad. This is kind of closely related to the subject at hand.

Hon. Temporary Speaker, I am glad that you are two in one. You have been a teacher, and I believe you have been coaching football in schools where you taught. Additionally, you play for Bunge Football Club. You understand all the rules attendant to football or soccer. You have also seen firsthand how certain times people use crooked means to unduly give themselves a win. Something which is criminal and has to be treated very much as such. I watch football.

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I watched the recently concluded World Cup. I was more interested in seeing African teams play. However, I am an amateur player. You know me as a runner. I do 800 metres and 1,500 metres, and walking race. I have received lots of awards both in and outside Bunge.

African teams were edged out at preliminary stages not because they never qualified, but because, I believe, they were prejudiced by the officiators. I watched the last one, Egypt versus Argentina and they did not have to be edged out at that level. At least, Morocco proceeded to the round of 16. However, we could have done much better if everybody played by the rules and no one enjoyed any advantage over the others. Match fixing must therefore, be addressed. We have International Federation of Association Football (FIFA) which is charged with the responsibility of regulating everything around football. We understand that they cannot spread their tentacles that wide, but at least, they need to start somewhere. Those who have been charged or have participated in this criminal act must be gotten rid of; at least for five years or even more, for not playing by the rules. However, we have not seen FIFA flexing its muscles and using its teeth to bite where it should.

Rules enacted by FIFA should be cascaded downwards, even to the smallest of clubs in our villages. Having been a teacher and a football coach, we have seen schools playing against other schools but those who qualify, are not really the best of the teams. Every year, schools lodge complaints with sports tribunals; and a few times, I have seen those decisions tinkered with and disturbed by the tribunals so that the rightful candidate or school should be given the award.

Our children have to be subjected to this kind of match-fixing at that tender age, where schools advance not because they are the schools that qualify, but because they were unduly given the win. These people are therefore going to grow up knowing that to get anything in this world, you do not necessarily have to play by the rules. We have to start somewhere as a country; and this Bill that has been brought forth by my sister, Hon. Mayaka, is a very good starting point.

About the penalty that has been preferred here, I believe my sister, Hon. Mayaka, will be able to relook into it or rather, I push for an amendment. We can move it from Ksh1 million to Ksh5 million so that the rightful winner is given the opportunity and not the people who do not qualify; who at the end of the day, get what is not theirs. Everybody should play by the rules. They should be subjected to our laws as a nation. This is going to be a very good starting point. If we do so, probably this is going to be the first time in our history that Kenya will qualify for World Cup.

I have been praying that my country qualifies. We have had Dennis Oliech, who was a World Cup material and now Olunga, a World Cup material. However, because of all the gerrymandering and crooks who run the show, Kenya is denied an opportunity to appear at the World Cup. Let me pray, believe and hope, that in our lifetime, Kenya is going to represent us as a nation in the World Cup sooner than later.

I thank you for the opportunity, Hon. Temporary Speaker.

The Temporary Speaker (Hon. Omboko Milemba):

I hope you will live to see Kenya play in the World Cup. Hon. Jared, when you introduce me to football circles, I am not ordinary. I am an ex-international player because by 1988, I had had a call in the national team. Let us listen to Hon. Patrick and then Hon. Jack Wamboka.

Hon. Patrick Osero (Borabu, ODM):

Thank you, Hon. Temporary Speaker, for giving me this opportunity. I wish to congratulate my sister, Hon. Irene Mayaka, for this amendment. It is a timely amendment, more so given the influx of betting. This Bill should have been here long before this craze of betting came up.

I personally used to run a tournament called Osero Cup before I came to this august House. I can see you smiling but it had 48 teams and we managed to get two boys to play in

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Shabana. One is called Matthew Tegsi and I have forgotten the other one’s name, just from that upbringing. So, I wish to say that this amendment is very timely.

You realise that sports betting is now a craze in the country. We have Aviator and all sorts of betting games which has even gone to the extent that people commit suicide after losing bets. So, I state that unfair competition is the reason we have gotten to where we are as a country. I remember there was a time, I think in the 60s, when Kenya won the first and only 4 by 400 metres race gold medal. In that race, we had three members from the Gusii community; Charles Asati, Robert Ouko, Hezekiah Nyamau and I think Robert Sang’ or somebody else. Then, we did not have betting or match fixing but the glory still came to Kenya.

As we support this, we also wish to notify the relevant ministries that, in a case like now when they are developing these sports academies, the criminality of betting and match fixing which leads to unfair competition and degrades our sport should be taught right from there. I support this Bill. In the Third Reading, we will be here to support it fully.

Thank you, Hon. Temporary Speaker.

(Applause)

The Temporary Speaker (Hon. Omboko Milemba):

Hon. Jack Wamboka

Hon. Wanami Wamboka (Bumula, DAP-K):

Hon. Temporary Speaker, I have known Hon. Irene Mayaka for close to 20 years now. She is also my sister-in-law but I had never imagined she could be such a spectacular debater and legislator in this House. She has done very well and we hope that the people of the great county of Nyamira can see the good work she is doing so that they can consider her to come back to this House. The only advice I would want to give her is please, concentrate on your seat because any other seat up or down may be tricky and risky for you. I sincerely pray that Nyamira people, the house of Omogusii, brings you back to this House.

Secondly, we want to appreciate those who have been there before us—those who have opened the space for this country. In mind, I have Hon. Omboko Milemba, who is seated on the Chair now, an ex-international player. As a member of Bunge FC, one of the moments that I love is to just watch how you dribble the ball in the midfield. I am very encouraged you can do that at your age. I think young people, young sportsmen and women, should emulate such kind of people and their discipline. We would be on the field and when someone is substituted, they do not feel or like it and they blame the coach. However, I have never seen the mighty walking midfielder throw tantrums on the field.

Football and other sports must be regulated. This Bill is timely because sports is now a very big business. The betting firms are making a lot of money from sports. If left unregulated, we will not have a country. International organisations like FIFA and other major football academies wants to tap into an organised country. This Bill will bring order in the sporting industry.

I remember the case of City Stars. Nothing happened. At the end of the day, the world is watching what Kenya does with these kinds of things. This Bill is timely. We need to cascade this down. The discipline must start from primary schools. When these schools are doing their sporting activities, we should encourage discipline. We should encourage them to follow the rule of law, so that they can be attractive internationally. We have seen a scenario where schools go for each other's necks. When St. Joseph's Kitale and St. Anthony Kitale are playing, you think it is World War II. They go for each other, whereas sports are supposed to be enjoyed. You watch the game and how people play, and then you feel nice and appreciate the winners. These people go for each other. They go and poach very old people from other counties and villages to come and play.

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When you have young children in Form Four, Three, Two and One, but the other school has poached a very old person who has even finished campus, that is a very unfair competition and risky for these children. This Bill will bring sanity. We want our young people to join serious football clubs like the one I support, Arsenal. Some people support Manchester United. I look at them and ask whether they are real.

(Hon. Millie-Odhiambo Mabona spoke off the record) Hon. Temporary Speaker, I normally do not like to cross the path of the bad girl. So, I will quit that very quickly. When you look at the World Cup, African teams had talent. Senegalese played well. Up to the 86th minute, the score was 2-0. How they lost is disheartening. It goes back to how football is managed in African countries. I hope that one day, with this kind of legislation coming into place, in our lifetime, our country will play during World Cup and then proceed to the semi-finals and even to the finals.

I urge the government to please allocate monies in building talents. Support talent by building infrastructure. We want the stadia that are ongoing to be completed. In Bungoma County, we have Masinde Muliro Stadium in Kanduyi. It was started almost 10 years ago. Up to now, it is not complete. We urge the government to balance development. You want to finish the construction of Homa Bay Stadium and Garissa Stadium very quickly. Please prioritise the construction of the stadium in Bungoma because Bungoma people are also taxpayers. There is no way a stadium in Bungoma can take over 10 years to be constructed, while a stadium in Homa Bay took three years. We, as people, want fairness because we pay taxes.

(An Hon. Member spoke off the record) We want to encourage the Government to continue allocating funds for sports infrastructure. Hon. Temporary Speaker, protect me because there is nothing out of order in what I am saying.

We want to encourage the Government to ensure that at least, every county...

On a point of order, Hon. Temporary Speaker.

The Temporary Speaker (Hon. Omboko Milemba):

Order, Hon. Wanami. What is out of order, Deputy Leader of the Majority Party?

Hon. Wanami Wamboka (Bumula, DAP–K):

Thank you very much, Hon. Temporary Speaker. Relevance and accuracy of information are tenets of parliamentary debate, and they are provided for in the Standing Orders. My honourable friend, Hon. Wamboka, with whom I share many things, is imputing improper motives to this Government.

This Government has been in office for only four years. He is saying that the stadium in Bungoma has taken over 10 years to be completed, while the one in Homa Bay has taken only three years. The period he is citing to allege unfairness by this Government is, therefore, irrelevant to his argument.

He should instead give credit where it is due. He should commend this Government for completing the Homa Bay Stadium in three years, whereas the previous Government failed to address the interests of the people of Bungoma.

Please, leave Tawe and come home. You are my friend, and I will take care of you. Leave that Linda Mwananchi.

The Temporary Speaker (Hon. Omboko Milemba):

Order. You have been heard. Proceed, Hon. Wanami.

Hon. Temporary Speaker, I do not know what my brother understands by the term "government". Every country, including Kenya, must have a government at all times.

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The stadium in Bungoma has taken more than 10 years to complete. The President himself came to Bungoma and committed that it would be completed three years ago. It has not been completed, yet the Homa Bay Stadium is complete.

As for Tawe and Linda Mwananchi, how can I leave a team that is going to produce the next President? Hon. Edwin Sifuna is going to be the next President of this country. That is why we are supporting him.

Returning to my point, we want to encourage the Government to build at least one stadium in every county. Progressively, we also want every constituency to have a proper stadium so that we can nurture talent from an early age.

[The Temporary Speaker (Hon. Omboko Milemba) left the Chair] [The Temporary Speaker (Hon. Farah Maalim) in the Chair] By the time these young people reach senior schools, they should already be attracting interest from major clubs around the world. Hon. Mayaka, please continue taking these suggestions from Hon. Members to strengthen your Bill because it is a very important piece of legislation. I wish you all the best…

The Temporary Speaker (Hon. Farah Maalim):

You have half a minute to conclude. You cannot use two microphones at the same time.

Hon. Wanami Wamboka (Bumula, DAP–K):

Exactly, Hon. Temporary Speaker. You should advise our Clerks-at-the-Table. Sometimes, they do a good job but at times, they forget.

As I conclude, I wish my sister, Hon. Mayaka, all the best in her political career. Hon. Mayaka, when the time comes, do not hesitate to join Linda Mwananchi. I will speak to our spokesman, Hon. Caroli Omondi, to secure you a ticket so that the people of Nyamira can consider electing you as their Woman Representative. Thank you very much for the Lord’s work you are doing.

Thank you, Hon. Temporary Speaker.

The Temporary Speaker (Hon. Farah Maalim):

Order. Hon. Millie Odhiambo, Member for Suba North.

Hon. Millie Odhiambo-Mabona (Suba North, ODM):

Thank you, Hon. Temporary Speaker, for giving me this opportunity to contribute to the Sports (Amendment) Bill, 2026, sponsored by Hon. Irene Mayaka.

First, let me commend Hon. Mayaka for this excellent work. She has done a very good job since joining Parliament. She understands the mandate of a nominated Member of Parliament. Some Members are nominated to this House and leave without making any mark. Hon. Mayaka, you are on the right path. I hope the people of Nyamira County will remember your service, especially those in our party, whose colours you have adorned, as well as those beyond our party. Ultimately, leadership is about service.

Hon. Temporary Speaker, the Sports (Amendment) Bill seeks to confront one of the challenges that we have, sporting integrity in this country. We have many qualified and excellent Kenyans but because of issues such as match fixing, we compromise and kill sports. So, when we actually look at the issues affecting sports, we encourage many more young people to be involved. In many countries, sports employ many young people. We are currently dealing with the issue of unemployment.

If we professionalise sports, it means that many of our young people will get into it as a career path. Perhaps, if sports were professionalised earlier, I would not be here as a Member of Parliament. I would have been a sports person because I was excellent in the 100 metres

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race. Even though I now look like I cannot even do 200 or 400 metres, I was excellent in the 100 metres race. I was in Homa Bay Primary School with Hon. Caroli, and he can confirm that I was a star athlete.

(Hon. Caroli Omondi spoke off the record) I was also excellent in the National Youth Service where I was also with the same Hon. Member. In another note, I would like to interrogate why people who went to Homa Bay Primary School are such kichwa-ngumus, very tough-headed. But I love the fact that they are very principled as well. I can mention just a few of them and we are doing fairly well: I, Hon. Millie Odhiambo, Hon. Caroli, Hon. Agostinho Neto, Hon. Odiwuor and Cabinet Secretary, Ogamba. We are very many. I have named just a few. It was a good school. We were way ahead of Alliance. It is just that our school is in South Nyanza and people do not know it.

Hon. Temporary Speaker, let me come back to this Bill. The Bill deals with manipulation of sports competitions. It also looks at investigative powers and provides a six- month investigative timeline for Sports Kenya. The Bill also looks at the jurisdiction of the Sports Tribunal over manipulation appeals. This is very important because if we delay too much in dealing with issues which are presented where there is a conflict, it might discourage people.

The Bill also has a stand-alone offence on sports manipulation that also has penalties. It has forfeiture of all proceeds gained through manipulation. We know that one of our sons, I forget his name, who was such a great sportsman, was caught up at an international level in this kind of situation and lost. We are losing many of our young people internationally. This is because, internationally, they may not be able to get as much focus and attention as when they are here at home. Many of them end up missing their paths. Recently, I read something online; that one of our excellent rugby players, Maurice Odumbe, was brought back to Kenya. If they were playing for Kenya when we had professionalised sports, then they would not have faced such kind of challenges.

Hon. Temporary Speaker, I do not want to talk too much because this is a fairly straightforward Bill. I also congratulate Hon. Mayaka because she has done something that is not very common. Many people do not associate women with sporting. She has come out strongly and especially in matters football. I was told not to use the word soccer because it is more American, we associate more with football. She has done much to support sports, especially, football in this country. She has done much more for our girls, Harambee Starlets. She always calls us seeking our support for the girls.

They were beaten in their last game, but we are still proud of them because they continue to lift the flag of this country very high. We encourage our women and young men to remain focused. Once this Bill passes, it means that our sporting activities will go very far.

Hon. Omboko was very concerned about the Homa Bay Stadium and questioned why the Bungoma Stadium has taken so long. However, if you look at the Homa Bay Stadium, it was actually started by the former Governor, Hon. Awiti, and later completed by the President. Perhaps, that is why it was completed much faster, because there was already a framework in place. Therefore, it is not necessarily a reason to castigate the Government. Perhaps, you may find other reasons to criticise the Government, but not on this issue.

The framework was already there, and the Government simply came in and completed the project. We are happy because, even though the stadium is named after Raila, the name "Talanta" seems to be swallowing it. We would encourage the Government to consider another facility that can simply be called the Raila Odinga Stadium, without fighting with the Talanta name. We want to remember Hon. Raila for the excellent work he did for this country in advancing democracy and the rule of law.

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I was on Ramogi FM this morning and I said that of the things that concerns me most, it is that we stay true to those ideals, true to our democratic values and true to the principles of integrity, which Hon. Mayaka is seeking to promote through this Bill. We were not supporting the late Hon. Raila because of his looks. No. We supported him because of his ideals. The moment we lose those ideals; we also lose the public. We must remain pro-people and be concerned about the issues that affect Kenyans. Therefore, even as we undertake our legislative work, it must reflect that commitment to addressing the concerns of our citizens.

Once again, congratulations, Hon. Irene. I wish you all the very best, and I hope that you get elected. If the people of Nyamira are listening to me, I want to tell them that they have a gem in Hon. Irene. An excellent gem, just like myself. You know, if you do not praise yourself, sometimes you do not get people to praise you. I believe I have done excellent work in this House. So, Hon. Irene, please keep up the good work.

With those few remarks, I support.

The Temporary Speaker (Hon. Farah Maalim):

Hon. Omondi, another Homa Bay Primary School alumnus.

Hon. Caroli Omondi (Suba South, ODM):

Yes, some of us went to both Homa Bay Primary School and Homa Bay High School, among others.

Thank you very much, Hon. Speaker. I am speaking on behalf of the Chairperson of the Departmental Committee on Sports and Culture. As a Committee, and on behalf of the Chairperson, we support the Second Reading of the Sports (Amendment) Bill (National Assembly Bill No. 5 of 2026).

The principal objective of the Bill is to criminalise acts of manipulation of sports competitions, commonly known as match-fixing. It is important that we understand what manipulation is. As defined in the Bill, it is where the natural order or outcome of a sporting competition is improperly influenced, whether because someone has been bribed, received gifts, cash or other benefits to throw a match, or through some other form of collusion intended to fix the outcome of that competition.

There are also other elements of manipulation, such as age fraud, where participants who do not meet the required age qualifications are included in competitions. In ancient Rome, the gladiators entered the arena with these words on their lips…

The Temporary Speaker (Hon. Farah Maalim):

Colosseum.

Hon. Caroli Omondi (Suba South, ODM):

Yes, colosseum. "Let me win. But if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt." Sports is about human excellence. It reveals many of the virtues of the human spirit, discipline of man, endurance and team spirit. That is why we are very careful to prevent cheating in sports. It is just like cheating in exams or committing fraud in business. We note that this particular Bill is supposed to promote integrity, fairness, honesty and the uncertainty of the outcome of sporting competitions, which is the source of joy and the thrill that we have, as people who watch sports.

Match fixing undermines these principles, erodes public confidence in sports and unfairly disadvantages athletes who compete with integrity. I think Hon. Irene Mayaka will agree with me that witchcraft is not included as part of the manipulation we are talking about here. It is not. Many people believe in other activities to influence the outcome of sporting events.

Hon. Temporary Speaker, Kenya is bound by the Macolin Convention which established the benchmarks for preventing and combating the manipulation of sports competitions. We have looked at the Bill as a Committee and we held extensive public participation with the following stakeholders: the Ministry of Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports; the Office of the Attorney-General; the Law Society of Kenya; Kenya Academy of Sports; the Anti-Doping Agency of Kenya; the National Olympic Committee; Football Kenya Federation; the Association of Gaming Operators; and one member of the public, Mr Wesley

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Kanyeria. We also got information that the Ministry of Sports was in the process of establishing a Sports Integrity Unit within its structure so as to deal with issues of promoting integrity, transparency and ethical conduct in sports. We have not held the Bill back because of this. We have actually told the Ministry that when they are ready with their Integrity Unit, we will amend the law. So, they should follow the law and catch up with us. The stakeholders asked the Committee that certain thing be considered.

One, we needed to harmonise this Bill with other existing laws such as the Anti-Bribery Act, the Gambling Control Act and the Penal Code, so that we deal with overlaps and also make sure that there is harmonisation of various definitions of certain terms, such as manipulation of sports competitions.

We also noted that Sports Kenya lacks the institutional capacity, statutory mandate and specialised expertise to investigate criminal offences. Therefore, as a Committee we are proposing that the power to investigate the offence of manipulation of sports competitions be vested in the Directorate of Criminal Investigations, which would be the competent law enforcement agency mandated to investigate criminal conduct. However, as a Committee, we want the sports associations to retain their power to investigate and discipline their members. So, if there is manipulation, Football Kenya Federation or Athletics Kenya can deal with the athletes; either by suspending or excluding them from competition because they are the formal regulatory agencies for various sporting activities. Therefore, the Committee made the

following observations: that the Bill addresses a critical legislative gap and seeks to promote

integrity and fairness in sports, and protect athletes, officials and sporting organisations from corruption.

We plan to move a few amendments at the Committee Stage to streamline the definition of the act of manipulation as I have said, delete clauses that provide that Sports Kenya will investigate incidents of manipulation and vest that role in the Directorate of Criminal Investigations, and provide a two-tier investigative process in regard to manipulation of sports. While the DCI will be tasked with investigating the criminal element of the act, the sports organisations or federations will also be mandated to initiate disciplinary proceedings and investigations in regard to the professional athletes registered with them. We will also be proposing amendments to enhance the penalties for the offences of manipulation.

Hon. Temporary Speaker, permit me to conclude by stating that this Bill is timely and necessary, and the Committee is fully in support. Thank you very much, Hon. Temporary Speaker

The Temporary Speaker (Hon. Farah Maalim):

Hon. Omboko Milemba, Hon. Cherorot and then Hon. Kitur.

Hon. Omboko Milemba (Emuhaya, ANC):

Thank you, Hon. Temporary Speaker. This is a great Bill because over the years we have heard rumours and talked about manipulation in sports. What is common in our area are athletics. Many Kenyan athletes lose their places because they manipulate their energies by using substances that enhance their energy. We lose some of the very best sporting people in the area of athletics.

Therefore, I wish Hon. Mayaka can expand the scope of the Bill. I do not know if we shall have such a chance to do it during the Committee of the whole House.

(Hon. Caroli Omondi, Hon. Millie Odhiambo-Mabona and Hon Irene Mayaka consulted loudly)

The Temporary Speaker (Hon. Farah Maalim):

Order, Hon. Members. Hon. Omboko is making a very valid and important contribution, including ideas that will help you enhance

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the Bill. The three of you are engaging in a small kamukunji there. Proceed, Hon. Omboko. listen to him.

Hon. Omboko Milemba (Emuhaya, ANC):

Thank you. Hon. Mayaka, during the Committee of the whole House, we can expand the scope of the Bill to include the manipulation that comes with the substances that enhance influence.

The Temporary Speaker (Hon. Farah Maalim):

Is this substance abuse?

Hon. Omboko Milemba (Emuhaya, ANC):

Yes. I know it has its legislation, but this Bill can provide space to deal with those substances because they also manipulate the sport. You remember the popular footballer, Diego Maradona, in the World Cup that was in Germany. When he was going to face the finals against Germany, he was banned for substance abuse. That is part of manipulation. We need to expand a little bit more.

Hon. Mayaka, you realise that many Members who have contributed to this Bill have spoken to other influencing factors of manipulation away from just betting. There are also players who disguise as legible players, but they are not. Many speakers spoke on this right from the level of school competitions to all other competitions. I remember when I used to play Premier League, then it was called Super League, we had identification cards. This means that is another area of manipulation.

I do not know if you wish that to be dealt with in ordinary regulations of the football organising groups in this country or you also want a legislation in that area. Hon. Mayaka has brought a Bill which is of great concern to Kenyans. They want football to be the most popular sport here which is being refined to be genuine and not to have manipulation. Our history of manipulation goes back to a very long time ago. We have had real situations where FIFA intervened. In 2019, FIFA intervened directly in the Kenyan football by banning one of our best national players, Mr George Owino. He was involved in manipulation issues.

We also remember the Zoo FC which FIFA intervened directly and asked the Kenyan Football Federation to relegate to a lower grade because of manipulation. You may even remember the story of Sofapaka FC because I used to be around the fields those days. It was also accused of manipulation and ended up bringing a company called 3D, which later on hired a Portuguese coach. The entire performance of Sofapaka FC was investigated and found that it was basically based on manipulation and FIFA took action on it.

That even does not leave out the likes of Muhoroni Youth FC which again had an intervention of FIFA. Therefore, this is a very good Bill which we shall look at the fines. At the level where you are talking about the punishments, fines or the mitigating factors to stop this menace, we must be very strict because the fines must be punitive enough to discourage it. Manipulation in sports, especially football, is very enticing because people want to win glory and trophies. I noticed that the proposed fine is below Ksh1 million. However, when you are dealing with Premier League football clubs, that amount is too little.

As I told you, by 1988 I was playing in the Kenyan Premier League (KPL). Ksh1 million is very little money for a Premier League Club. Therefore, such a penalty would simply be a walk in the park. We need to review the punishment and ensure that it is punitive enough to discourage the vice of match-fixing in this country. I support this Bill and look forward to seeing a better sporting environment.

I also believe that something should be done, or that we should enact legislation, to regulate betting companies. Even when you watched the World Cup, some matches raised questions. Why would African countries play so well and appear to be winning, only to lose within three or five minutes? In ordinary football, that is not possible. Sometimes, there may be more than meets the eye and there is a lot of work that needs to be done regarding the manipulation of matches.

I beg to support. Thank you, Hon. Temporary Speaker.

Hon. Joseph Cherorot (Kipkelion East, UDA):

Thank you, Hon. Temporary Speaker.

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I rise to support the Bill that Hon. Irene Mayaka has brought to amend the Sports Act. Hon. Irene has demonstrated the passion she has always had for sports. I regularly attend football matches and I often see Hon. Irene Mayaka in uniform and team colours supporting the side she loves.

As a Bunge FC player, together with my colleague here, I want to say that every morning at 6.00 a.m. we wake up and go to Ulinzi Sports Grounds field to train. We practise because we want to perform well whenever we face our opponents.

When you face your opponent and find that maybe the referee has been compromised, that is where everything goes wrong. Therefore, I support this Bill because it will restore integrity and discipline in sports. Criminalising match-fixing will instil discipline among players, team managers and coaches responsible for managing teams.

During our younger days, we used to play football using goalposts without nets. That created many disputes because it was difficult to tell whether the ball had gone into the goal or outside. Today, the introduction of goal nets has brought greater certainty. We also have the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) which helps determine whether a goal was scored, whether a foul was committed, and whether disciplinary decisions, including red cards, are justified.

In Kenya, we have many teams that are working hard to qualify for the Premier League. Unfortunately, some talented players have been discouraged because of match-fixing. Sometimes, physical fights even break out on the field because of these issues. Sometimes, it is referees who mess up the games. Imagine a situation like the recent African Nations Championships (CHAN) which people bought tickets and went to the stadium, only for a referee to compromise the match. Everything was in a mess.

The other day, I participated in a football match between two teams called Tutam and Mbwegze. They were to play for 30 minutes each half. When I arrived and offered to play for one of the teams, while in the field, the referee approached me. He suggested that he would extend the match by 45 minutes because I was there. I wish this Bill had been in force. We would have used it to discipline that referee. Nevertheless, we played.

I know the Government has done a lot for football and other sports, such as athletics. All this is aimed at promoting integrity and raising the profile of our nation. Kenya is renowned because of athletics and football. The other day, during CHAN, our players performed very well. Congratulations to the coach. Hon. Irene has a bright future. I want to tell the people of Nyamira that, in her, you have a leader. I also wish to add that raising the standard of sport in our country will earn us greater respect globally. This Bill will help us achieve that. Match- fixing destroys the integrity of players, teams and ultimately, our nation.

Thank you, Hon. Temporary Speaker. I support and endorse the Bill brought by Hon. Irene Mayaka.

The Temporary Speaker (Hon. Farah Maalim):

Thank you, Hon. Cherorot. He will be followed by Hon. Kitur.

Hon. Bernard Kitur (Nandi Hills, UDA):

Thank you, Hon. Temporary Speaker for giving me the opportunity to contribute to this important Sports (Amendment) Bill, 2026, sponsored by Hon. Irene Mayaka.

At the outset, I support the Bill. Allow me to commend this great leader in the House. When we were newly elected Members, we served together in the Departmental Committee on Communication, Information and Innovation. She was one of the most active and articulate leaders. She made significant contributions while we were there. It was probably through that performance that she came to the attention of the House leadership. When she participated in one of the committees she was in, she was elected Chairperson of the Committee on Regional Integration.

For a first-term Member to become a committee chairperson is no mean achievement. I say this because I also happened to have been a Chairperson of the Constitutional

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Implementation Oversight Committee for some time. I must admit it is a great honour to have such an opportunity in this House. I, therefore, wish her the very best as she continues her trajectory of building her career path back in Nyamira. I want to tell the people of Nyamira that you have a fantastic leader. As first-term Members of Parliament, we applaud you. Secondly, I commend the number of Bills you have sponsored and the quality of your contributions in this House. Hon. Irene, you are just a fantastic leader.

With that said, allow me to contribute to the Bill. I note that it contains about five clauses seeking to amend the law for the purpose of cleaning up and sanitising the sports sector. This Bill is timely because, under the Kenya Kwanza Government and the Broad-Based Government, this is the first time we have had an administration that has recognised and expanded the sports space in our country. Up and including the completion of stadiums that had stalled. We have also seen the President of Kenya supporting our teams whenever they participate in either local leagues or international tournaments.

When teams are participating in various local leagues or international tournaments, the President sometimes attends their matches. That creates enthusiasm of unmeasured levels in sports amongst young people in every part of the country. True to the word, sports is one of the most lucrative spaces of businesses that Kenyans can make a livelihood out of, just like many people are doing globally in business communities that are making money. Young people can monetise their talents.

Hon. Irene Mayaka has proposed amendments that will clean up our sports and put Kenya on the global map of playing sports with integrity. Allow me to ventilate on Clause 2 on definition of “manipulation of sports competition.” The expanded scope of this definition now includes a person offering, giving, soliciting or receiving undue advantage whether financial or otherwise, or utilising undue information for financial gain among five other definitions that have been provided. That is very good. The definitions will help clean up the sports space and everybody will know very well what is manipulation of sports competition.

The Sports Act has given Sports Kenya the opportunity to participate in investigations with other investigative agencies and make reports regarding any of these acts of manipulation. There is a timeline of determination of six months after receiving these reports meant for Sports Kenya from investigative agencies. Giving a timeline of determination is very important to make it determinative.

I have a concern that I want to share with Hon. Mayaka on amendment of Section 64A(3) on disciplinary measure. Of course, I appreciate the fact that she has proposed in Section 64A(1) participation of individuals in manipulation by abetting it indirectly will make them liable for a maximum fine of 1 million shillings as a penalty. That amount is too little in my view. We are dealing with integrity. We must make it so punitive that individuals choose not to participate in any form of manipulation in any sport.

The inclusion of clubs is very important so that they can regulate themselves. However, I have a problem with the inclusion of a disciplinary measure of a lifetime ban. That is extreme. Whether it is clubs or individuals involved, people change. In clubs, their management changes. A new management can come in and desire to maintain a high level of integrity. Therefore, I do not wish that we make it that punitive so that some teams are forced not to participate completely in their lifetime and wind up. In any case, we have not had this Bill before. So, probably we need to be a bit flexible on that. I applaud the fact that it has been mentioned that the funds that a manipulator gets have to be forfeited and they be dropped from continuous participation in the games they have been taking part in. Those are my thoughts.

I am speaking so passionately on aspects of sports because, as you know, I am the East African Parliamentary Games 100 metres champion. I am too good in it. In the last two completions, I won gold medals. I am a gold medallist and that is the reason why I am so

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passionate about sports. We, therefore need to sanitise sports. It is for that reason that Hon. Irene Mayaka has brought this amendment Bill. I salute the great lady from Gusiiland.

The Temporary Speaker (Hon. Farah Maalim):

There being no further interest, I will call upon the Mover to reply. Hon. Mayaka, proceed and reply.

Hon. Irene Mayaka (Nominated, ODM):

Thank you very much, Hon. Temporary Speaker. Let me take this opportunity to thank my colleagues for their overwhelming support for this Bill. This is a true demonstration that the leaders and legislators of this country genuinely care about sports integrity. Together, I am sure we will enrich this Bill and make it even better.

I appreciate the feedback from my colleagues, especially on the issue of the fine, which many Members feel is too low and not stringent enough. Having considered the Report tabled by the Departmental Committee on Sports and Culture, which is available to Members, I urge those who have amendments to also consider the Committee's proposals because I am aligned with them.

With regard to the fine, and without wishing to pre-empt debate before the Committee's representative addressed the House, one of the Committee's proposals is that the fine should be three times the value of the benefit obtained through the manipulation of a sports competition or Ksh10 million, whichever is higher. I therefore urge colleagues who have amendments that they believe will enrich this Bill to table them as soon as possible so that we can consider them and ensure that we enact a comprehensive law that supports and protects sports integrity.

Another suggestion that has come through, and which I consider very important, is from Hon. Milemba, who is a football player, regarding the inclusion of the abuse of substances used to enhance performance as one of the offences to be criminalised. I think that is an important proposal.

Another issue that has been mentioned is age cheating. This is important because, as you will notice, through the Talanta Hela initiative, the Ministry of Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports has established different age categories for national football development. We now have Under-15, Under-17 and Under-20 teams before players graduate to the senior national teams.

To give the example of the Harambee Starlets, they have been an excellent example for our country. The junior teams provide a pathway to the senior national team through scouting conducted during national school competitions. We even have two young players from Bunyore Girls High School who have represented the Junior Starlets and also feature for Kenya Police Bullets FC, one of the country's leading women's football clubs. This demonstrates the importance of structured player development.

Another example of the issue of age is Spain. If you look at why Spain was a very successful team in the World Cup, it had two players who were 18 years old, and if you look at the average age of their players, it was actually 23 years. This is because they won the World Cup 16 years ago, but they went back and took time to develop their sport from a very young age. They have one of the best football sporting academies in the world, and their success is no mean feat. Spain is going to be a very tough team to beat for a very long time because of the systems they have put in place. Many European countries have adopted similar approaches.

I believe this is one of the ideas that informed the establishment of the Talanta Hela initiative. I hope that this House will continue supporting these programmes because they are essential to nurturing talent from an early age and ensuring that it is growing.

I welcome the proposal and I hope that Hon. Milemba will bring this amendment to criminalise disguising of age.

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[The Temporary Speaker (Hon. Peter Kaluma) in the Chair] Hon. Temporary Speaker, there was a lot of feedback regarding the fines. Members felt the Ksh1 million fine is too low and I concur with them. As the sponsor of the Bill, I hope that Members will bring their suggestions before the Committee of the whole House so that we can enrich this Bill.

Once again, I thank the people of Kenya, people in the sports fraternities and federations and journalists who have been sending me a lot of feedback on how they think this Bill can be enriched and why they believe this is very important for our country.

Hon. Temporary Speaker, the views of Parliament today have been extremely high. People have been following live and sending feedback. I really thank Kenyans for their overwhelming support. I thank fellow colleagues, the Members of Parliament, the office of the Clerk of the National Assembly and parliamentary staff for the overwhelming support they have given. I also thank the Departmental Committee on Sports and Culture for allowing me to defend the Bill before them, conducting public participation, inviting the different federations and Kenyans of goodwill to participate and for the report they prepared.

I also thank the leadership of both the Majority and Minority parties. I got a lot of support from my mentors on this Bill, led by Hon. Millie Mabona, Hon. Junet, Hon. Ichung’wah in absentia, Hon. Owen Baya and the Speaker. I need to mention that I previously had only three amendments to this Bill. I was amending the Sports Act, the Penal Code and the Anti-Doping Act. The Speaker advised me to combine these and focus on The Sports (Amendment) Act to make it faster and more effective. I therefore really thank the Speaker and the Speaker’s Panel for their guidance.

With those few remarks, I beg to move. Thank you.

The Temporary Speaker (Hon. Peter Kaluma):

Thank you, Hon. Irene Mayaka. (Question put and agreed to) (The Bill was read a Second Time and committed to Committee of the whole House) Next Order.

MOTIONS

ADOPTION OF 2ND REPORT ON STATUS OF REPORTS ON PETITIONS AND RESOLUTIONS PASSED BY THE HOUSE

The Temporary Speaker (Hon. Peter Kaluma):

Mover.

Hon. Raphael Wanjala (Budalangi, ODM):

Thank you, Hon. Temporary Speaker, I beg to move the following Motion:

THAT, this House adopts the Second Report of the Committee on Implementation on status of Reports on Petitions and Resolutions passed by the House, laid on the Table of the House on Thursday, 26th October 2023. Hon. Temporary Speaker, the Committee on Implementation is established pursuant to Standing Order 209 of the National Assembly Standing Orders. The Committee is mandated to scrutinise resolutions of the House including adopted committee reports, petitions and

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undertakings issued by the National Executive. The Committee further examines whether such decisions and undertakings have been implemented within the minimum time necessary and whether satisfactory explanation has been provided in instances of delay on implementation.

Further to this mandate, Standing Order 201 provides that within 60 days of a resolution of the House or adoption of a report of a select committee, the relevant Cabinet Secretary shall submit a report to the appropriate committee detailing the status of implementation of such resolutions. In consonance with Article 153 (4) (b) of the Constitution, Cabinet Secretaries are required to provide Parliament with full and regular reports concerning matters under their control.

The Committee on Implementation, therefore, plays a pivotal role in ensuring that resolutions of the House translate into tangible outcomes for the citizens by holding the Executive accountable and ensuring that Parliament does not act in vain. In executing its mandate, the Committee engaged various ministries, state corporations and agencies requesting status reports on the implementation of House resolutions, petitions and adopted committee reports. The Committee received both written and oral submissions from Cabinet Secretaries and Accounting Officers during sittings held between February and April 2023.

In the execution of its mandate, the Committee wrote to various ministries, state corporations and agencies requesting the implementation status of resolutions, petitions and adopted committee reports passed by the House. The Committee received both oral and written submissions from the Cabinet Secretaries and Accounting Officers of the state corporations, providing the implementation status of the recommendations contained in the reports adopted by the House in the sittings held from February to April 2023.

1. Twenty-four reports of the Public Investments Committee on its consideration of the Auditor-General's report on the financial statements of the Geothermal Development Company (GDC) for the Financial Year 2017/2018.
2. Twenty-four reports of the Public Investments Committee on its consideration of the Auditor-General's report on the financial statements of the Kenya Electricity Generating Company (KenGen) for Financial Years 2014/2015 to 2019/2020.
3. Twenty-four reports of the Public Investments Committee on its consideration of the Auditor-General's report on the financial statements of the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) for the Financial Years 2017/2018 to 2018/2019.
4. Twenty-four reports of the Public Investments Committee on its consideration of the Auditor-General's report on the financial statements of the Athi Water Works for the Financial Years 2014/2015 to 2019/2020.
5. Twenty-four reports of the Public Investments Committee on its consideration of the Auditor-General's report on the financial statements of the Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) for the Financial Years 2014/2015 to 2017/2018.
6. Twenty-four reports of the Public Investment Committee on its consideration of the Auditor-General's report on the financial statements of the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KEBS) for the Financial Years 2015/2016 to 2019/2020.
7. Twenty-four reports of the Public Investments Committee on its consideration of the Auditor-General's report on the financial statements of the North Waters Services Board for the Financial Years 2011/2012 to 2017/2018.

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8. Twenty-four reports of the Public Investments Committee on its consideration of the Auditor-General's report on the financial statements of the Tana and Athi Rivers Development Authority (TARDA) for the Financial Years 2011/2012 to 2017/2018.
9. Twenty-four reports of the Public Investments Committee on its consideration of the Auditor-General's report on the financial statements of the Rural Electrification and Renewable Energy Corporation (REREC) for the Financial Years 2006/2007 to 2019/2020.

In addition, the Committee undertook inspection visits to selected projects and state corporations to verify the progress made in the implementation of House resolutions. The Report, therefore, contains a comprehensive analysis of the responses received, the status of implementation at the time of reporting, as well as the Committee's observations and recommendations.

Hon. Temporary Speaker, in its consideration of the implementation status of House resolutions, the Committee made several general observations that have a direct bearing on their effective implementation. Firstly, the majority of House resolutions have budgetary implications, yet inadequate funding remains a key impediment to their implementation.

Secondly, the Committee encountered cases where construction projects took inordinately long to complete for various reasons, including contractor non-performance, delayed Exchequer releases, budget cuts, and generally poor planning and project management. This led to soaring costs and a general lack of value for money, and in certain cases, interest charges by contractors.

Thirdly, ministries, departments, and agencies often fail to allocate adequate resources for the implementation of House resolutions. In addition, some resolutions are not framed in a specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, and time-bound manner, thereby hindering effective execution.

To address these challenges, the Committee makes the following key recommendations:

1. Accounting officers of ministries, departments, and agencies should factor all House resolutions with budgetary implications into the budgets of subsequent financial years.
2. Accounting officers should incorporate House resolutions into their institutional work plans, complete with timelines, deliverables, and assigned responsibilities.
3. The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) should submit a status report on all pending investigations referenced in this Report within 60 days of the adoption of this Report by the House.
4. The National Treasury should ensure that funds required for the implementation of House resolutions are appropriated within one financial year following the adoption of the resolutions.

Additionally, government agencies mandated to implement House resolutions must comply within the stipulated timelines, failure of which appropriate sanctions should be imposed on the responsible officers. The Committee is persuaded that if these recommendations are adopted and implemented, they will significantly enhance accountability, transparency, efficiency, prudent financial management, commercial viability of State corporations and ultimately ensure value for money for the Kenyan people.

Having carefully considered the proceedings and findings of the Committee, I beg to move and urge this House to adopt the Second Report of the Committee on Implementation. I now request Hon. Rose Museu Mumo, who is my deputy, to second the Motion.

Thank you, Hon. Temporary Speaker.

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The Temporary Speaker (Hon. Peter Kaluma):

Hon. Rose Mumo Museu. How come we are not able to locate Hon. Rose Museu? She is seated there. (Technical hitch) Our ICT department is failing us. You must find a way of ensuring that microphones work. Can we give Hon. Rose Museu the microphone?

Hon. Rose Mumo (Makueni County, WDM):

Thank you very much, Hon. Temporary Speaker. The Committee on Implementation is very vital in this House and the country as a whole. Its overall mandate of scrutinising resolutions made in the House, including adopted committee reports and petitions, has been done thus enabling a smooth running of our ministries and other departments.

Various Ministries, State corporations and the Executive have been held accountable to ensure that Parliament does not act in vain, hence keeping them on their toes. During our interactions with various ministries and departments, challenges have been noted, as indicated in our Report—that most projects have stalled due to inappropriate funding.

There is also an urgent need for relevant ministries and agencies to adopt the House resolutions with the seriousness it deserves. They should adopt the SMART framework, as has been mentioned, as this will assist them during the implementation period. The National Treasury also needs to make sure money allocated to various projects is released on time, as this will enable timely completion of projects.

I wish to second this Motion, Hon. Temporary Speaker. (Question proposed)

The Temporary Speaker (Hon. Peter Kaluma):

Hon. Timothy Toroitich.

Hon. Timothy Kipchumba (Marakwet West, Independent):

Thank you, Hon. Temporary Speaker. I have listened to the submissions made by Hon. Raphael Wanjala. As a former member of the Committee on Implementation, suffice to say that this is a very important Committee of the House. This is actually what is loosely known as the Committee of the last resort. I have looked at the Committee resolution which reads:

The Committee is persuaded that if these recommendations are adopted and implemented, they will significantly enhance accountability, transparency, efficiency, prudent financial management, commercial viability of state corporations and ultimately ensure value for money for the Kenyan people. I am left to wonder. This is because the Committee on Implementation is actually the committee of last resort for this House. How can we have a Report of the Committee on Implementation that says that, ‘the Committee is persuaded that if these resolutions are adopted and implemented…’? It is the committee of the last resort. It is not the Committee to…

The Temporary Speaker (Hon. Peter Kaluma):

Hon. Wanjala, are you listening to Hon. Timothy Toroitich?

Hon. Raphael Wanjala (Budalangi, ODM):

Yes.

The Temporary Speaker (Hon. Peter Kaluma):

Please do. Do not be distracted by the Secretary General of the ODM Party, Hon. Catherine Omanyo.

Hon. Timothy Kipchumba (Marakwet West, Independent):

The Committee on Implementation is a fundamental Committee of this House. It is the committee of last resort. That when we pass Motions in this House and they become House resolutions, the Committee to ensure that those resolutions have been implemented by the Executive is the Committee on Implementation. But this Committee is now coming back to this House and saying that, ‘the Committee is persuaded that if these resolutions are adopted and implemented…’. This shows

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that they are throwing the ball back to the House instead of giving us concrete solutions, one of them being sanctions. This Committee should say that the Executive has not implemented a specific House resolution, then they list the sanctions they have proposed for that lack of implementation. I therefore do not substantially agree with this Report. This is because the Committee is not providing an actionable recommendation to the House. The Committee needs to look for a way of having a substantive report on actual implementation of House Resolutions.

Thank you.

The Temporary Speaker (Hon. Peter Kaluma):

Hon. Karemba, do you want to contribute to this? (Hon. Muchangi Karemba spoke off the record) (The Temporary Speaker consulted

with Clerks-at-the-Table) Hon. Mulyungi, approach the Temporary Speaker. (The Temporary Speaker consulted with Hon. Gideon Mulyungi)

On a point of order, Hon. Temporary Speaker.

The Temporary Speaker (Hon. Peter Kaluma):

Hon. Mulyungi, what is out of order?

Hon. Muchangi Karemba (Runyenjes, UDA):

Hon. Temporary Speaker, I rise on Standing Order 96. I propose that debate on this Motion under Order No. 12 be adjourned until further notice.

Thank you, Hon. Temporary Speaker. (Question, that the debate be now adjourned, put and agreed to)

The Temporary Speaker (Hon. Peter Kaluma):

The Motion is adjourned for further debate in the future as and when it will be listed by the House Business Committee (HBC). Ordinarily, we would have called the Mover to reply but because of the critical issues raised by Hon. Timothy Toroitich and the matters raised by Hon. Chairman of the Committee in charge of implementation while moving, this is a Report that should be discussed by more Members of the House before we conclude it. If it were any other report, we would have concluded it.

In other jurisdictions, Hon. Members, if you want to contribute to a Motion, you must register. If you do not register interest in contributing before it is tabled, the Motion is just passed. However, this is very critical, considering the important place and role of the

Committee on Implementation, particularly, on the matters added to the Report by Hon.

Timothy Toroitich in his contributions.

Next Order.

ADOPTION OF REPORT ON PETITION TO AMEND THE CONSUMER PROTECTION ACT

The Temporary Speaker (Hon. Peter Kaluma):

Is the Chairperson of the Public Petitions Committee in the House?

Yes.

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The Temporary Speaker (Hon. Peter Kaluma):

Hon. Muchangi Karemba, move the Motion.

Hon. Muchangi Karemba (Runyenjes, UDA):

Hon. Temporary Speaker, I beg to move the following Motion:

THAT, this House adopts the Report of the Public Petitions Committee on its consideration of Public Petition No. 14 of 2025 regarding the proposal to amend the Consumer Protection Act to provide for the in duplum rule, laid on the Table of the House on Wednesday, 1st April 2026. Hon. Temporary Speaker, the role of oversight is a core mandate of the National Assembly as stipulated under the Constitution of Kenya 2010. In fulfilment of the constitutional duty, the Public Petitions Committee is mandated under Standing Order 208 A(2)(b) to consider all petitions tabled in the House. Public Petition No.14 of 2025 was presented to the House pursuant to Standing Order 225(2)(a), by Hon. Speaker, on behalf of the Petitioner, Mr Allen Waiyaki Gichuhi, EBS, on 17th April 2025.

The Petitioner specifically seeks the intervention of the National Assembly, through the Public Petitions Committee, to amend the Consumer Protection Act (Cap. 501), to codify the in duplum rule and extend its protection to all borrowers in Kenya regardless of the type of lender.

The Committee undertook a comprehensive examination of the Petition. We received oral and written submissions from various stakeholders, including the Petitioner, Mr Allen Waiyaki Gichuhi, EBS, Senior Counsel, Office of the Attorney-General and Central Bank of Kenya (CBK).

The submissions received formed the basis of the Committee's observations and recommendations as outlined in the Report. Having considered all the submissions and issues for determination, the Committee made key observations:

1. The in duplum rule is a long-standing legal principle that limits the amount of interest a creditor can recover. The core principle is that interest stops running when the unpaid interest equals the outstanding principal amount, preventing the accumulation of interest beyond double the outstanding principal sum.
2. While Section 44A of the Banking Act codifies the in duplum rule for banks, this protection does not extend to other lenders such as SACCOs, microfinance institutions, digital and mobile lenders, and unregulated mobile money lenders (shylocks). This creates a massive legislative gap that leaves the most vulnerable borrowers unprotected
3. The current legal framework is unjust and inequitable. It provides protection for citizens who borrow from banks while leaving the “hustlers”, Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), and the financially distressed at the mercy of predatory lenders.
4. Kenyan courts have delivered divergent opinions on whether the in duplum rule applies to non-bank lenders. In Anne J. Mugure & 2 Others v Higher Education Loans Board (HELB),the court declared that the rule applies to all persons involved in the lending business. However, in Momentum Credit Limited v Kabuya, the court ruled that Section 44A only applies to financial institutions under the Banking Act. This uncertainty demonstrates a clear need for legislative clarification. The Committee affirms the right to fair consumer protection under Article 46 of the Constitution, and the national

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values of transparency and accountability, and social justice, under Article

10.
5. The Central Bank of Kenya confirmed that similar in duplum provisions have been replicated in the CBK Digital Credit Providers Regulations of 2022, and the Microfinance Bill 2025, and expressed amenability to anchoring the rule in the Consumer Protection Act, 2012.
6. The Office of the Attorney-General acknowledged the need to balance contractual freedom against consumer protection, and supported extending in duplum protections beyond banks to create uniformity and certainty.

Hon. Temporary Speaker, in light of the observations made, the Committee makes the following recommendations:

1. That the Consumer Protection Act (Cap. 501), be amended to entrench the in duplum rule, providing for universal application to all credit agreements in Kenya, regardless of the lender, clarity on when the rule takes effect, whether it applies to penalties, default charges, and other costs in addition to interest, uniform mechanisms for debt restructuring and recovery, and redress mechanisms for borrowers who have been subjected to unlawful interest charges.
2. That this Report be debated by the House as per the Standing Order 208A(c) and in line with the Standing Order 114A(b).

Hon. Temporary Speaker, I wish to, in conclusion, express the Committee's gratitude to the petitioner and all stakeholders for their invaluable input, which enabled the Committee to compile this crucial Report. I also extend my sincere appreciation to your Office and the Office of the Clerk of the National Assembly.

I further thank the Hon. Members of the Public Petitions Committee for their diligent participation in deliberations, as well as the Committee Secretariat for their professional support in preparing this Report.

Therefore, Hon. Temporary Speaker, I submit, and I now call upon the Hon. Dorothy Ikiara to second the Motion, as I urge the House to adopt the Report.

Thank you, Hon. Temporary Speaker.

The Temporary Speaker (Hon. Peter Kaluma):

Hon. Dorothy Ikiara.

Hon. Dorothy Muthoni (Nominated, UDA):

Thank you, Hon. Temporary Speaker. I support this Motion on the Public Petition No. 14 of 2025 on consideration of a Petition regarding the proposal to amend the Consumer Protection Act in the interest of protecting the consumers from exploitation. I agree with the recommendations of the Committee and I thank the Hon. Chairman and the entire Committee for coming up with these recommendations.

I second. (Question proposed)

The Temporary Speaker (Hon. Peter Kaluma):

Hon. Beatrice Elachi.

Thank you, Hon. Temporary Speaker. I also rise to support the Report being a member of the Committee. I think this was a very interesting Petition and you realise it talks about the in duplum rule, which is a legal principle that limits amounts of interests a lender can recover on non-performing loans as set out in Section 44A of the Banking Act.

When we were canvassing to listen to this Petition, one of the things that really came out is that I think many Kenyans have gone through the same challenge. For this petitioner to bring the Petition to this House to request if we can look at the law, it was because many have gone through a lot of challenges. These are especially those who go through digital and mobile lenders, micro-finance institutions, Savings and Credit Cooperative Organisations (SACCOs)

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and also unregulated shylocks and non-entities that are bound within Section 44A of the Banking Act.

Hon. Temporary Speaker, even when you look at what the Attorney General said, she definitely affirmed that the in duplum rule is a legal principle. When you look at the Report, she also came out and said that Kenyan courts have also grappled with the issue of whether the in duplum rule applies to non-regulated lenders and other lending institutions that do not qualify as financial institutions. However, you realise that is where the bigger majority of Kenyans look for money. The mama mbogas at home and the small groups that we have are the ones who go to look for loans from these small institutions or those that are not compliant to this and then when they do not have money to pay the loans and they become nonperforming, they find themselves in the biggest challenge.

There was something else they said which we need to ask ourselves. They argued that Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) was charging them exorbitant interest rates and penalties which went beyond the principal amount borrowed hence a violation of their constitutional rights. So, the petitioner’s prayer at that time was that the court declares the rates and penalties charged violated their constitutional rights and the in duplum rule. However, HELB argued that the in duplum rule does not apply to them and that the Higher Education Loans Board Act allowed for imposition. So, you see if we do not as a House come up with a way to handle this, we will always end up in court with the same challenge.

Therefore, we must ask ourselves, as a House, whether we should extend the application of the in duplum rule to ensure that every financial institution that lends money adheres to it. Alternatively, how do we provide protection to all borrowers? That is a question we need to ask ourselves.

The other issue we need to consider in this Report is the role of the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK), as my Chairperson has clearly outlined. Allow me to read one provision issued by the Central Bank of Kenya:

The maximum amount shall include the principal owing when the loan becomes non-performing, interest in accordance with the contract between the debtor and the institution, incurred not exceeding the principal owing when the loan becomes non-performing, and expenses incurred in the recovery of any amounts owed by the debtor. When CBK sets out such a provision, it raises another challenge that we need to address. We need to review the Banking Act and the Microfinance Bill, 2025, so that we can resolve the challenges we are currently facing. Given the many challenges facing Kenyans today, this is the kind of matter you will find before our commercial courts with every judge trying to determine how best to assist borrowers. The same challenge also arises in relation to mortgages. As much as we are discussing money lending generally, many Kenyans with mortgages are facing similar difficulties, particularly those who borrowed through HFCK, which has since become a bank. The concern is that many people borrowed specifically to finance mortgages. There comes a point where a mortgage becomes non-performing, yet it remains a loan.

The Temporary Speaker (Hon. Peter Kaluma):

Why has Hon. Beatrice Elachi been disconnected? You need more time.

Just one minute, Hon. Temporary Speaker, and I will finish.

The Temporary Speaker (Hon. Peter Kaluma):

No. Use all the time you need. You are making a very important contribution.

Hon. Timothy Kipchumba (Marakwet West, Independent):

Thank you, Hon. Temporary Speaker. I was explaining the issue of mortgages. My biggest concern is what happens when an institution that was operating under the microfinance framework subsequently becomes a bank. What happens to a borrower who took out a mortgage and the loan subsequently becomes non-

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performing, perhaps because they lost their job or encountered other financial difficulties? Does the institution simply move to repossess the house? Or does it first consider the amount the borrower has already repaid against the penalties that have accrued? In some cases, a borrower may already have repaid the principal amount, yet it is the accumulated penalties that ultimately cause them to lose their home.

I believe this is one issue that we, as a House, must address for the benefit of Kenyans. If we do so, we will have a healthier nation in which people do not lose their matrimonial homes simply because of financial challenges they encountered after borrowing money.

With those remarks, Hon. Temporary Speaker, I beg to support.

The Temporary Speaker (Hon. Peter Kaluma):

Hon. Timothy Toroitich.

Thank you, Hon. Temporary Speaker, for the opportunity to comment on this very important Motion. Since I came to Parliament, I consider this one of the most fundamental discussions we have had on protecting our people from exploitation by unscrupulous lenders.

Article 46 of the Constitution provides, in very clear terms, for consumer rights and fundamental freedoms. Article 46(1) provides that consumers have the right to goods and services of reasonable quality and to the information necessary for them to gain full benefit from goods and services. And Article 46(2) of the Constitution states that Parliament shall enact legislation to provide for consumer protection. Enacting legislation, in my interpretation of this provision, means also amending a legislation to protect the interests of consumers.

The Petition seeking to anchor the in duplum rule in the Consumer Protection Act (Cap.

501) is very important. Currently, Section 44A of the Banking Act provides, in part, that interest on a loan ceases to accrue once it equals the outstanding principal amount, when a loan becomes non-performing. However, there are institutions, including some micro and small enterprises, which are commonly referred to as shylocks who operate completely outside the law. These institutions exploit our people. They impose endless accumulation of interest and harass our people left, right and centre. You borrow a loan from what you call a shylock and your logbook is taken as security. Once you default, the interest is compounded. Within three or four months, an individual ends up losing the vehicle or a house. This law is very important for us to amend the Consumer Protection Act so that we limit the amount an individual is required to pay once they borrow from such an institution. Funny enough, these institutions do not pay taxes. They are unregulated and operate outside the Banking Act and the law. What has made the situation even worse is that the courts have given inconsistent judicial interpretations. That matter has not been settled by the courts. For that reason, if we amend the Consumer Protection Act and anchor the in duplum rule in law, the courts will be guided. As we speak, the courts do not have a specific legislation they refer to in their quest to defend the interest of the consumers. The Committee, led by Hon. Karemba, my good friend, is doing a good job in bringing this Petition before the House. We need a full House to debate this proposed amendment to the Consumer Protection Act because it is geared towards protecting the interests of our people. This House plays a very fundamental role. As a lawyer, you know what Montesquieu, the father of the doctrine of separation of powers, said. For a proper and functional democracy, there must be three arms of government. One of them ensures there are checks and balances and people are protected. This is the legislature. That is why we have to play our oversight role, not only to oversee public institutions but also private institutions that exploit our people. Those shylock entities have exploited Kenyans for far too long. They charge punitive interest on loans, harass our people and deploy recovery mechanisms that are outside the law. In trying to recover the purported excessive interest they charge on loans, they often act outside the law. For those reasons, I support this very important Petition. I call upon shylocks operating

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in this country to act responsibly and be humane. If they give a client a loan of Ksh100,000 and the person pays it, even if there is delay, let them be humane enough and allow Kenyans to have peace. Hon. Temporary Speaker, for that reason, I support this particular Petition that is geared towards protecting consumer interests and protecting our people in this country.

The Temporary Speaker (Hon. Peter Kaluma):

Hon. Wanjiku Muhia, you may make your contributions.

Hon. Wanjiku Muhia (Kipipiri, UDA):

Thank you, Hon. Temporary Speaker. Allow me first to congratulate the newly elected Member, in absentia, Hon. Kamau. Yesterday, I did not get a chance to do so. I welcome him to the House.

Honestly, the Petition before the House is very critical. As we martial the ideas of speaking so much against the shylocks and Savings and Credit Cooperative Organisations (SACCOs), we must also ask ourselves why consumers go to them. I believe it is because the market is not very friendly. The banking sector has never been very friendly to micro, small and medium enterprises. When they go to seek loans, sometimes they are asked for title deeds and sometimes the loans take a very long time to be processed, yet a consumer may have an immediate need. For that reason, the consumer is left with no other option other than visit shylocks. Many businessmen and women really do not want to go to shylocks and other microfinance institutions which do not operating within the law. It is circumstances that push them to those avenues.

As we speak, it is also good for the Central Bank of Kenya and those pushing this Petition to consider how to modify circumstances within the banking sector so that credit is favourable, friendly and accessible to consumers. Time and again, we have seen the banking sector itself charging more than the expected interest. In fact, a few years back, this House came up with a law, I think by Hon. Jude Njomo, which capped interest rates to correspond with the Central Bank requirements. Some years later, that cap was done away with.

Hon. Temporary Speaker, we witnessed the banking industry become very unkind to consumer. If one had taken a loan at, say, 13 per cent interest, overnight when the cap was removed, they charged the same loan at 18 per cent or almost 20 per cent interest. In fact, let me give myself as an example because I am a victim. I had taken a facility with an interest rate of 13 per cent. When the cap was done away with, the interest on the same loan was adjusted without even my approval just because at the back of the form where creditors provide space for clients to sign, there are terms and conditions that one has to accept.

One very tricky and hidden clause there is that the interest rate shall move in accordance with banking requirements. When a bank changes interest rate from 13 per cent to 18 per cent, your loan is automatically adjusted accordingly. In such cases, consumers are exploited. When a client takes a loan at an interest of 13 per cent for a certain number of years, they calculate their income and know how much they are going to pay during that period. If the interest rate is adjusted and the loan no longer corresponds with your plans, honestly, that becomes very unfair to consumers. The whole banking sector has to be called to order by this House. Of course, this is a very good move, starting with the avenue of SACCOs and shylocks. However, the banking sector must also make the environment friendly enough to allow more customers get the loans through their businesses.

With that, I thank you for the opportunity and I support.

The Temporary Speaker (Hon. Peter Kaluma):

Hon. Zamzam, you may make your contribution.

Hon. Zamzam Mohammed (Mombasa County, ODM):

Asante sana, Mhe. Spika wa Muda. Kwanza nimwambie mwenzangu kuwa, tangu tupate Rais mpya katika Taifa, ile riba iliyokuwa juu katika mabenki sasa imeshuka chini. Ni muhimu sana ikisemwa tusipelekwe na hisia za uchochezi na upinzani. Jambo la kuigwa ni la kuigwa, na la kusemwa wazi ni la kusemwa wazi. Rais William Samoei Ruto ameweza kuhakikisha kuwa ile riba ambayo ilikuwa

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inatozwa zamani ikiwa juu imeregeshwa chini ili wanabiashara waweze kufanya biashara kwa wepesi.

Nikirudi kwa hawa wakopeshaji ambao wanatoa pesa kama vile shylock na wengine, ni dhahiri kuwa wameiba. Juzi tu, mtoto wa dada yangu alinipigia simu akaniambia kuwa alichukua Ksh400,000 ya kuongezea ili anunue matatu, na baada ya kubakisha kiasi kidogo cha kuimalizia, walikuja baada ya siku mbili wakidai mara mbili ya pesa alizochukua. Waliingia kwa gari lake, wakachukua ufunguo na wakatoka na gari.

Kwa hivyo, tunapigana na mambo haya. Wale ambao wanazungumza mambo mengine wajue kuwa watu kama shylock na wengine ambao wanapeana mikopo wanaongeza mpaka mara tatu ya pesa zile ambazo mtu amekopa. Kama tunaweza regulate ili wafuate sheria kuwa mtu akichukua mkopo hafai kulipa zaidi ya ile ambayo alichukua, itakuwa bora. kwa hivyo, tunaiunga mkono hii sheria na niseme tena ya kuwa Rais amejaribu sana.

Haya mambo yalikuwa yamekuwa magumu sana, lakini kwa wakati huu tunaweza kupiga msasa. Rais ameweka wazi kuwa mikopo katika benki… Nimesikia ukimtaja Waziri wangu. Saa hii mambo ni mazuri sana. Mhe. Joho ako sawa katika wizara yake.

Mhe. Joho ni mojawapo wa wale ambao wamebobea na wanafanya kazi vizuri nchini. Tukiangalia katika Wizara ya Madini, ilikuwa imelala lakini ameipiga msasa. Kwa hivyo, namwambia mwenzangu akimtaja hapa, amtaje akijua kwamba anaweza kuwa Rais wa Kenya siku moja; amebobea na yuko sawa.

Kwa hawa watu ambao wanatoa mikopo, huu ni wizi dhahiri. Wanaibia Wakenya na kuwafanya watu kuwa na hofu. Mtu anakuja ofisini kwangu na kuniambia kuwa tuk-tuk imechukuliwa na alikuwa amelipa Ksh900,000 na ilikuwa imebaki Ksh10,000 peke yake. Anasema wanaenda na tuk-tuk ili kuipiga auction.

Tukiweza kutunga sheria kama hizi ziweze kutetea watu wa pikipiki, tuk-tuk, magari na wengine ambao wanahangaishwa. Kwa mfano, akina mama wa Kisauni walinifuata juzi na kuniambia, “Mama Zamzam, ulikuwa nasi katika chama” maanake mimi nimeanzia mbali. Kabla ningie Bunge nilikuwa “hustler”. Nilikuwa nakaanga mahamri, chapati na maharagwe tukiwa tunachanga kidogo. Tulikuwa kwa benki moja iliyojiita benki ya wanawake, sitaki kuitaja jina. Tulikuwa tunaweka akiba zetu na kisha unachukua mkopo, unalipa, lakini zile savings zinabaki pale.

Wakati wa kuondoka, maanake niliacha nyuma wenzangu na pia nikaacha savings zangu, mpaka leo wale akina mama wamezuiliwa kuchukua pesa zao. Hii benki imekatalia hiyo pesa. Haya ni mambo ambayo tunaangalia, na hivi karibuni mtaniona pengine kwenye televisheni nikiyafuata kwa sababu nilikuwa katika chama hicho na najua wale akina mama walikuwa wanapata uzito gani kuweza kuweka akiba.

Ni mambo ambayo tunayaangalia, na naunga mkono mjadala huu wa leo, na niseme kwamba lazima sheria ifuatwe kikamilifu.

Asante sana.

The Temporary Speaker (Hon. Peter Kaluma):

Do we have any more interest in the Motion? None has been registered with the Speaker. The mover will now reply.

Hon. Karemba, as you reply, you may wish to look at the Committee’s recommendation

(ii), which I believe is the last recommendation. I have looked at the Standing Order provisions you have referred to, namely Standing Order 208A(c) and Standing Order 114A(b). It appears that a figure has been omitted before paragraph (c) in Standing Order 208A and before paragraph (b) in Standing Order 114A. As you reply, you may wish to look at those provisions in the Standing Order and make the necessary insertions so that the Committee’s recommendation is precise, clear and correctly cites the provisions pursuant to which it is made.

Hon. Muchangi Karemba (Runyenjes, UDA):

Thank you, Hon. Temporary Speaker. I wish to thank Members who have contributed to this very important Report. I agree with them that we must bring to an end the exploitation of the many Kenyans who turn to these lending

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institutions seeking financial assistance, only to end up losing even the little they have through such exploitation.

I would have wished that the House was fuller to allow more Members an opportunity to speak on this very important matter because the many affected Kenyans have representatives in this House. Taking into consideration the recommendations, the Members' contributions and your guidance, I hereby reply.

The Temporary Speaker (Hon. Peter Kaluma):

Thank you very much, Hon. Karemba. (Question put and agreed to) Again, Hon. Karemba, we have proceeded in this manner because the Committee's recommendation is clear in substance. What is required following the recommendation is that the Consumer Protection Act, Cap. 501 of the Laws of Kenya, will be amended to entrench the in duplum rule, as per Annexure No. 4 of the Report. The other legislative actions, including the enactment and passage of the necessary Bill, will follow. The substance of the recommendation is therefore clear, and that is why we have proceeded in the manner we have.

Next Order.

MOTION

ADOPTION OF REPORT ON AUDITED ACCOUNTS OF STATE CORPORATIONS IN THE ROADS AND TRANSPORT SECTOR

THAT, this House adopts the Report of the Public Investments

Committee on Commercial Affairs and Energy on its examination of the audited

financial statements of selected State corporations in the roads and transport sector, laid on the Table of the House on Tuesday, 14th October 2025.

The Temporary Speaker (Hon. Peter Kaluma):

Chairperson, Public Investments Committee on Commercial Affairs and Energy. Do we have the mover? Is it David Pkosing? I have not received any indication from the mover to defer. Nevertheless, I will defer this business for the last time. No single mover should hold up House business without prior notice.

The next time this Order is called and the mover is absent without prior communication, I will direct that it be dropped from the Order Paper and lapsed for the convenience of the House. I urge Committee Chairpersons to take greater interest in the business of the House.

Next Order.

BILL

Second Reading

THE BOOKS AND NEWSPAPERS (AMENDMENT) BILL

(National Assembly Bill No. 47 of 2025)

The Temporary Speaker (Hon. Peter Kaluma):

Is the Chairperson of the Departmental Committee on Parliamentary Broadcasting and Library in the House? This particular Bill was specifically mentioned to the Speaker together with a request for deferment of the House's consideration of it.

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It is ordered that it be deferred for future House deliberations as and when the House Business Committee schedules it.

(Bill deferred) Next order.

MOTION

ADOPTION OF 4TH REPORT ON AUDITED ACCOUNTS OF NG-CDF FOR FYS 2016/2017 TO 2021/2022

The Temporary Speaker (Hon. Peter Kaluma):

Chairperson Decentralized Funds Accounts Committee, Hon. Mulyungi to move.

Hon. Dorothy Muthoni (Nominated, UDA):

Hon. Temporary Speaker, I beg to move the following Motion:

THAT, this House adopts the Fourth Report of the Decentralised Funds Accounts Committee on its consideration of the audited accounts for the National Government Constituencies Development Fund (NG-CDF) for the Financial Years 2016/2017, 2017/2018, 2018/2019, 2019/2020, 2020/2021 and 2021/2022, laid on the Table of the House on Thursday, 21st March 2024. The Committee examined the Auditor-General’s report for the six financial years, reviewed and received oral and written submissions of the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the NG-CDF Board together with supporting documents before arriving at its findings and recommendations. The fund is disbursed by the National Treasury for the onward transmission to the 290 constituencies. Therefore, the board is only a custodian, manager and a transmission conduit for the money. There is not much on this fund. It is just transmission. Therefore, in its examination, the Committee made the following observations:

1. That the NG-CDF Board received unqualified audit opinions for the said financial years.
2. That in the financial years 2017/2028, three audit matters were raised, all of which were satisfactorily resolved upon examination of the management responses.
3. The delays in exchequer releases resulted in delays in project implementation all over the country.
4. To mitigate these audit findings, the board has strengthened its governance framework through the establishment of an audit committee, automation of financial processes, implementation of cloud backup systems and enhancement of management information systems.
5. As I have said, the main challenge was the late disbursement of funds by the National Treasury.

Pursuant to this challenge, the committee recommended that the National Treasury ensure timely disbursement of funds to the NG-CDF account. That all allocations intended for a given financial year be released within the same financial year. The Committee extends its gratitude to the office of the Speaker and that of the Clerk for the support accorded to it in the discharge of the oversight mandate.

Hon. Temporary Speaker, I move and request Hon. Muthoni Ikiara to second.

The Temporary Speaker (Hon Peter Kaluma):

Hon. Dorcas Muthoni Ikiara.

Hon. Temporary Speaker, for correction, my name is Hon. Dorothy Muthoni Ikiara.

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I rise to second the Motion for the adoption of the Fourth Report of the Decentralized Funds Accounts Committee on the examination of the reports of the Auditor-General on the financial statements for the National Government Constituencies Development Fund (NG- CDF) for the Financial Years 2016/2017, 2017/2018, 2018/2019, 2019/2020, 2020/2021 and 2021/2022.

The Committee has presented a balanced Report that demonstrates the value of robust parliamentary oversight. This examination confirms that over the six Financial Years under review, the National Government Constituency Development Fund has made measurable progress in strengthening financial management, governance and accountability in the administration of public funds.

All the issues that the Chairman has highlighted, are issues that have been put into consideration. The Fund is doing very well. For those reasons that the Chair has raised, I urge Hon. Members to support the Committee's recommendation and adopt the Report. If we do so, we will reinforce the Parliamentary committees’ efforts on sound public financial management, accountability and prudent utilisation of public resources for the benefit of the Kenyan population. I beg to second.

(Question proposed)

The Temporary Speaker (Hon. Peter Kaluma):

Hon. Harrison Kombe.

Hon. Harrison Kombe (Magarini, ODM):

Thank you, Hon. Temporary Speaker. I wish to support the Report, particularly the recommendation that the disbursement of funds to the relevant NG-CDF account by the Treasury should be done appropriately and in good time and in turn, the NG-CDF management to disburse the funds to constituencies in good time to give room and time for the implementation of the approved projects in our respective constituencies. With those few remarks, I support.

The Temporary Speaker (Hon. Peter Kaluma):

Hon. Beatrice Elachi.

Thank you, Hon. Temporary Speaker. I also rise to support the Decentralized Funds Accounts Committee (DFAC) Report and I thank the Committee. I want to speak on a few things that we need to look at. First, I thank the Cabinet Secretary of the National Treasury, Hon. Mbadi. Since he came into office, we have seen some very great changes in terms of the disbursement of NG-CDF funds. I also want to thank the members of the NG-CDF Board because we have seen complete changes and Members can attest to that. The new acting Chief Executive Officer of the National Government Constituencies Development Fund, Mr. Benjamin Magut, has transformed the whole institution and the Fund completely.

Today, I can attest, as a Member of the Committee on NG-CDF, that things have changed. We have done our best to transform the institution that manages this Fund to make it more professional and to ensure that constituencies receive their allocations in line with the disbursements made by the National Treasury. What we need to ask ourselves is how we are going to ensure consistency in the audit process. You find as many as six auditors auditing the same Fund. I think we need to have a conversation with the Auditor-General because, when the audits are conducted, you find that each constituency's audit report is different. One audit team says one thing while another says something else. The main reason we established an independent Auditor-General was to help strengthen accountability within our institutions so that, when audit reports are prepared, they ensure that public resources have been spent prudently.

The audit process was not intended merely to produce recurring audit queries year after year. If the same audit query appears every year, it suggests that there is a need to build capacity in those areas. If the same issue raised in the previous audit continues to appear in subsequent audits, then there is clearly a governance and capacity gap within that institution.

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As I conclude, the most important thing this House needs to do is to consider how the Auditor-General can support every constituency through training and capacity building. It is very rare for someone to mismanage NG-CDF resources unless you are just a thief. Given the framework we have put in place for managing the NG-CDF, it is difficult to misuse those funds unless one has intentionally decided to be a thief. That is what I can say.

This is one governance framework in this country which, if replicated even at the national level, would significantly reduce corruption and the misuse of public resources. With those few remarks, I beg to support.

The Temporary Speaker (Hon. Peter Kaluma):

There being no further interest, I call upon the Mover to reply.