National Assembly Leaders Convene in Naivasha for Strategic Retreat on Legislative Agenda

NAIVASHA, Kenya – Senior leaders from Kenya’s National Assembly are gathering in Naivasha for a high-level strategic retreat focused on refining legislative priorities, strengthening oversight, and addressing procedural challenges in parliamentary business.

The retreat, spanning October 28 to 30, aims to build cohesion among the Assembly’s top brass under the theme, “Re-invigorating Synergy in Leadership for Accelerated Discharge of the Mandate of the National Assembly.”

The session, coordinated by the Office of National Assembly Speaker Dr. Moses Wetang’ula, will explore avenues to optimize legislative processes for the remainder of the current Third Session and the upcoming Fourth Session, which will commence on November 5, 2024.

Speaker Wetang’ula underscored the importance of the retreat in refining the Assembly’s approach, particularly as it faces increased scrutiny over issues like energy costs and infrastructure challenges affecting economic growth.

“This retreat provides an essential platform for the Assembly’s leadership to map out a strategic approach for the remaining legislative business, to enhance our oversight through committees, and to address procedural obstacles hindering effective governance,” Wetang’ula stated.

Leaders will engage with key figures in the energy sector, including the Energy Cabinet Secretary and CEO of Kenya Power, to tackle pressing energy concerns that have impacted manufacturing and the broader business environment.

Wetang’ula emphasized the importance of bipartisan cooperation in prioritizing crucial legislation that directly addresses citizens’ concerns, from rising energy costs to tax regime impacts on local businesses.

Majority Leader Hon. Kimani Ichung’wah highlighted the progress made by the Thirteenth Parliament since its inauguration, crediting orientation, induction, and capacity-building efforts that have empowered members to better fulfill their legislative duties.

He noted that this retreat builds on last year’s theme, which emphasized building synergy, by intensifying focus on effective governance practices and inter-leadership cooperation.

The three-day event will also feature Speaker Wetang’ula’s roundtable with the Kenya Private Sector Alliance (KEPSA) to discuss strategies to enhance Kenya’s competitiveness.

By aligning the legislative agenda with the private sector’s goals, Wetang’ula aims to foster a business-friendly environment that attracts investment and supports national growth objectives.

Deputy Speaker Hon. Gladys Boss and Minority Leader Hon. Junet Mohamed will also lead sessions aimed at facilitating open discussions on the Assembly’s procedural challenges.

The retreat will conclude with actionable plans for advancing legislative business and enhancing committee oversight, setting the stage for a more cohesive and effective Assembly as it tackles Kenya’s pressing needs.

This mid-term retreat comes as the Assembly reflects on significant challenges encountered in recent sessions, including the widespread protests over the Finance Bill in June.

Speaker Wetang’ula noted that such events highlight the need for leadership resilience and reassessment to ensure parliamentary efficacy amidst evolving national priorities.