The Role of the National Assembly in Kenya

The National Assembly in Kenya is a crucial pillar of governance, playing a key role in legislation, oversight, and representation. It is responsible for making laws, approving the national budget, and ensuring accountability in government.

This article provides a detailed breakdown of the functions, composition, and significance of the National Assembly in Kenya’s governance system.

1. Composition of the National Assembly

The membership of the National Assembly is defined under Article 97 of the Constitution of Kenya (2010).

Members of the National Assembly

The National Assembly consists of:

• 290 Members of Parliament (MPs) – Elected by registered voters from single-member constituencies.
• 47 Women Representatives – Elected by registered voters from each of the 47 counties.
• 12 Nominated Members – Appointed by political parties to represent special interest groups, including the youth, persons with disabilities, and workers.
• The Speaker of the National Assembly – An ex officio member without voting rights.

In total, the National Assembly has 349 members, excluding the Speaker.

2. Key Functions of the National Assembly

The National Assembly derives its authority from the people of Kenya. According to Article 95 of the Constitution, its core functions include:

1. Legislation – Enacting, amending, and repealing laws.
2. Representation – Advocating for the interests of constituents.
3. Oversight – Monitoring the Executive, State Organs, and Government Expenditure.
4. Budget Approval and Revenue Allocation – Managing public finances.
5. Approval of National Declarations – Including war and states of emergency.
6. Ensuring Accountability of Public Officers – Reviewing conduct and initiating removal from office.

Below is an in-depth look at these roles:

3. Legislation: Making and Amending Laws

One of the primary responsibilities of the National Assembly is to create laws for the country.

How a Law is Passed

• A Bill is introduced in the National Assembly.
• The Bill undergoes debate, amendment, and voting.
• Once passed, it is sent to the President for assent.
• If the President signs, the Bill becomes law.

Types of Bills

• Bills concerning the national government – Can only be passed by the National Assembly.
• Bills concerning county governments – Can originate in either the National Assembly or the Senate.
• Special Bills – Require approval from both Houses of Parliament.

Through legislation, the National Assembly shapes Kenya’s policies, economy, and governance.

4. Revenue Allocation and Budget Oversight

The National Assembly controls public funds and ensures they are used effectively.

Budget Approval

• It determines the distribution of national revenue.
• Reviews and passes the Division of Revenue Act, which allocates funds to county governments.
• Approves the Appropriations Act, which outlines government spending.

Oversight of Revenue Expenditure

The National Assembly works with:

• The Controller of Budget – Releases quarterly and annual budget reports.
• The Auditor General – Reviews government spending and prepares audit reports.

The National Assembly summons government officials to explain budget usage and prevents misuse of public funds.

5. Representation: Advocating for the People

MPs serve as the voice of the people by bringing constituents’ issues to Parliament.

How MPs Represent the People

1. Receiving Petitions – Constituents submit complaints or requests.
2. Tabling Petitions in Parliament – MPs formally present issues in the House.
3. Introducing Motions – MPs propose solutions to national and local problems.
4. Lobbying for Development Projects – Pushing for government initiatives in their constituencies.

Through representation, MPs ensure the government remains responsive to citizens’ needs.

6. Oversight: Monitoring Government and State Organs

The National Assembly ensures that public institutions function transparently.

Ways the National Assembly Exercises Oversight

• Summoning State Officers – Government officials must explain their decisions.
• Budget and Policy Oversight – Monitoring how funds are spent.
• Reviewing Conduct of Public Officials – Can initiate removal from office.

Removal from Office

The National Assembly has the power to remove key government officials:

• President and Deputy President – Through an impeachment process.
• Speaker or Deputy Speaker – By a two-thirds majority vote.
• Cabinet Secretaries and State Officers – If found guilty of misconduct.

Oversight ensures that government operations remain fair, accountable, and efficient.

7. Approving Declarations of War and States of Emergency

The National Assembly plays a crucial role in national security by:

• Approving declarations of war.
• Extending states of emergency when necessary.

This function ensures that the country’s security policies are well-regulated.

8. Monitoring the Implementation of Laws

Once laws are passed, the National Assembly ensures their enforcement.

• It reviews reports from government agencies.
• Ensures that ministries follow legal guidelines.
• Can modify laws to improve their effectiveness.

This role helps maintain the rule of law in Kenya.

9. Ensuring Public Integrity in Governance

The National Assembly ensures public officers uphold integrity.

• It reviews the conduct of the President, Deputy President, and other officials.
• Can initiate removal proceedings against public officials.
• Works with the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) to promote good governance.

This ensures that leaders remain accountable to the public.

Conclusion

The National Assembly of Kenya is at the heart of democratic governance. It ensures: ✅ Laws are enacted and reviewed
✅ Public funds are managed properly
✅ Government is held accountable
✅ Citizens’ concerns are addressed

Through legislation, oversight, and representation, the National Assembly strengthens democracy and fosters national development.