National Assembly Speaker, Rt. Hon. (Dr.) Moses Wetang’ula has urged the House leadership to give priority to pending legislative business as the year comes to an end.

Speaking on Monday at the during the House leadership retreat in Naivasha, Speaker Wetang’ula emphasized the need to ensure House business was completed on time.

“I urge the Whips of both Majority and Minority to ensure that quorum is achieved to deliver National Assembly Business”, noted Speaker.

He went on to encourage members to dedicate time for the plenary activities and also Committee meetings even as they carry out their other responsibilities.

“Indeed, the quality of legislation lies in the quality of the draft and the time accorded in generating and processing a particular legislation”, said Dr. Wetang’ula.

The retreat themed re-invigorating synergy in leadership for accelerated discharge of the Mandate of the National Assembly, is currently underway in Naivasha where the National Assembly leadership and Senior Parliamentary staff are engaging in a review of the year’s performance.

“Members of Parliament are the nerve center of the leadership of this country, they are the chosen few privileged to server the country in different capacities. I therefore encouraged Chairperson of Committee to prioritize pending business before the House and dedicate their time in delivering the legislative instruments on time”, guided Speaker Wetang’ula. 

The Leader of the Majority Party, Hon. Kimani Ichung’wa highlighted recent legislative achievements, including the passage of eight bills and adoption of eighty-nine motions, underscoring Parliament’s commitment to addressing Kenya’s pressing needs.

"Our role extends beyond enacting laws; we are the custodians of policies that foster an enabling business environment, promote investment, and safeguard the interests of both entrepreneurs and citizens," said Hon. Ichung’wah.

He urged lawmakers to maintain dedication, stating, "Let us continue to approach our work with the same diligence that has brought us this far."

On the other hand, the Minority Party Leader, Hon. June Mohammed called for regular like mind engagement and capacity buildings for legislators to deepen knowledge on legislation.

He commended the forum saying that it provided a great opportunity to reflect on the House performance, review shortcomings and formulate effective strategies. 

The Cabinet Secretary for energy, Hon. Opiyo Wandayi is in attendance and has delivered remarks on securing the energy sector for sustainable development.

“As a House Leadership, we have listened to the energy Sector through the Cabinet Secretary, Hon. Opiyo Wandayi who delivered a presentation before the leadership of the House to ensure that together we find out on what is ailing the sector”, acknowledged Speaker Wetang’ula.

The Kenya Private Sector Alliance (KPSA) is scheduled to appear before the leadership tomorrow with the aim of ensuring that proper legislation is in place to provide a concussive environment for all players in the sector.

Speaker Wetang’ula assured the country that the House is well capacitated and equal to the task of legislation, oversight and representation in performing their cardinal duties.

The Clerk of the National Assembly, Mr. Samuel Njoroge, highlighted statistics on House performance indicating that 17 Bills had been passed with 8 Bills Assented to, 3 awaiting assent, 6 forwarded to the Senate and 8 in mediation.

Mr. Njoroge however noted that 49 Bills were set to lapse while 67 Motions were awaiting debate hence calling upon Members to move with speed and process the pending legislations.