Parliament in session on November 9, 2023. IMAGE FILE| COURTESY
Summary:
1) National Assembly gears up for a contentious debate on the Housing Bill, pitting Kenya Kwanza-allied MPs against opposition members.
2) The High Court in Eldoret to issue a ruling on whether private security firms must comply with a legal notice setting minimum wages for guards.
As the day unfolds, several significant events are set to shape the national landscape in Kenya. Here’s a rundown of the key highlights:
1) Housing Bill Debate:
The National Assembly braces for a heated showdown as Members of Parliament engage in a rigorous debate on the Housing Bill. This legislation, designed to address issues surrounding the housing levy deduction, faces scrutiny after being declared unconstitutional by the courts. Expect intense deliberations between Kenya Kwanza-allied MPs and opposition members, reflecting the bill’s controversial nature.
2) Ruling on Security Firms’ Pay:
In Eldoret, the High Court prepares to render a verdict on whether private security firms must adhere to a legal notice establishing minimum wages for their guards. This decision follows the firms’ legal challenge against the government’s directive, seeking clarity on the implementation of the wage regulations. Judge Justice Reuben Nyakundi’s ruling will provide clarity on the future compensation framework for security personnel.
3) KEMRI Conference:
Health Cabinet Secretary Susan Nakhumicha will inaugurate the 14th Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) annual scientific and health conference. The event, themed ‘Harnessing Biomedical Research Innovations and Big Data for Health System Resilience, Local Manufacturing, and Commercialization’, underscores the importance of leveraging research advancements for health system sustainability and growth.
4) Release of Pending Bills Report:
National Treasury and Economic Planning Cabinet Secretary Njuguna Ndung’u is slated to unveil the 2024 pending bills verification committee status report. Together with Principal Secretary Chris Kiptoo and committee chair Edward Ouko, the CS will present findings aimed at addressing outstanding financial obligations effectively.
5) Committee Meetings:
The Senate National Cohesion Committee convenes with the Competition Authority of Kenya to discuss the appointment process for its Director-General. Concurrently, the National Assembly Committee on Lands will engage with the National Land Commission to deliberate on the Land Laws (Amendment) Bill of 2023, reflecting ongoing legislative initiatives aimed at addressing land-related issues.
Stay tuned for updates on these pivotal developments shaping Kenya’s socio-economic and legislative landscape.