Delays on roads bill could stall projects, warns MP Junet
The Suna East MP said the Bill, sponsored by Homabay Town MP Peter Kaluma on behalf of the House Legislative Caucus, is key in addressing constitutional defects identified in the Kenya Roads Board Act
Minority Leader in the National Assembly, Junet Mohamed, has urged MPs to prioritise the Kenya Roads (Amendment) Bill, 2025, warning that delays could cripple Kenya's road development programme.
Speaking during the opening of the 3rd National Assembly Leadership Retreat, the Suna East MP said the Bill, sponsored by Homabay Town MP Peter Kaluma on behalf of the House Legislative Caucus, is key in addressing constitutional defects identified in the Kenya Roads Board Act.
“Because of this, we must as a House prioritise the consideration of the Kenya Roads (Amendment) Bill, 2025. Failure to do so carries the grave risk of stalling the entire roads programme,” Junet cautioned.
The Bill seeks to address gaps flagged by the High Court, which criticised the exclusion of counties from the Road Maintenance Levy Fund (RMLF) and road classifications that weaken devolution.
If enacted, the law would allocate counties 5 per cent of the RMLF, require them to establish competent road departments, open special Central Bank accounts, and submit annual work programmes for oversight by the Kenya Roads Board.
Junet said the retreat offered a timely opportunity for Parliament to reflect on its performance, discipline, and public perception.
“There was no better time to call for the retreat than now. We are at a mid-point where we must take stock of how far we have come, where we want to go, and the challenges ahead,” he noted.
Defending Parliament against criticism, Junet argued that the House had delivered transformative laws in housing, health, and infrastructure through its committees.
“Parliament has done very well. We have passed a number of Bills that have changed the lives of Kenyans. I think this Parliament has been judged harshly because we are seen as the boogeymen of politics,” he said.
On relations with the Judiciary, he explained the importance of constructive engagement, especially on laws that have been declared unconstitutional.
“We need to have a common understanding with the Judiciary. That is why tomorrow’s session with them is critical,” said Junet.
