The National Assembly is set to resume its sessions on Tuesday with a packed agenda, led by a long-awaited Bill that seeks to provide a legal framework for public participation in government processes.

The proposed law, prepared by the Attorney-General following consultations, outlines how the Executive, Judiciary and Legislature should involve Kenyans in policy-making, legislation, and decision-making.

The Public Participation Bill, 2024, is among several items classified as priority by the National Assembly.

Lawmakers had earlier forwarded a draft to the Attorney-General’s office, which conducted widespread consultations before returning the Bill to Parliament for publication.

The proposed legislation outlines the rights of Kenyans attending public meetings, details the methods to be used during public engagement, and explains the criteria for selecting participants.

Responsible authorities will be expected to draw up public participation plans for approval, use media to enhance engagement, publish reports on the outcomes, and ensure feedback mechanisms are in place.

The Bill further obligates government entities to promote participation by persons with disabilities, including the provision of translators and sign language interpreters.

It also requires that all relevant information be disclosed during participation forums, aiming to prevent situations where new material is introduced after the public has already given their views.

Parliament has long struggled to define what constitutes proper public participation.

This has led to several laws being invalidated by the courts over failure to seek and incorporate public views.

Article 118 (1) (b) of the Constitution requires public involvement in all stages of government decision-making — from policy formulation to legislative action.

On Wednesday afternoon, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen is expected to appear before the House plenary to respond to urgent questions from lawmakers.

Rarieda MP Otiende Amollo will be seeking answers on the death of blogger Albert Ojwang, who reportedly died at Central Police Station in Nairobi after being taken from his home in Homa Bay by officers.

Murkomen is also expected to address concerns raised by Minority Whip Millie Odhiambo, who is demanding an explanation on deaths occurring in police custody.

“Apart from Ojwang, many people have died in police cells in many parts of the country,” she stated.

The Cabinet Secretary is further expected to clarify when police will start using body cameras as part of reforms he recently announced.

Another item awaiting debate is the Virtual Asset Service Providers Bill, 2025, which will be tabled for second reading.

The Bill, which has already undergone public participation under the Committee on Finance and National Planning, seeks to regulate virtual asset service providers and minimise risks associated with the misuse of such services.

It outlines licensing requirements, regulatory obligations and the criteria for assessing permit applications.

Lawmakers will also turn their attention to the Election Offences (Amendment) Bill, 2024, one of the proposals arising from the National Dialogue Committee (Nadco) convened by President William Ruto and opposition leader Raila Odinga.

Sponsored by Senate Majority Leader Aaron Cheruiyot and Minority Leader Stewart Madzayo, the Bill proposes strict penalties for officials of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) found guilty of electoral offences.

If passed, IEBC employees who deliberately delay results or alter declared outcomes may face a fine of up to Sh2 million or imprisonment for a period not exceeding five years.