Inside Proposed Changes To Presidential Transition Bill

The National Assembly’s Departmental Committee on Administration and Internal Security has proposed further amendments to a Bill seeking to revise the Assumption of the Office of the President Act.

Led by Narok West MP Gabriel Tongoyo, the Committee convened a session on Friday, March 28, 2025, with key stakeholders to review the Assumption of Office of the President and Transition of Executive Authority Bill, 2025.

The Bill, sponsored by Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah, aims to establish clear procedures and ceremonies for the assumption of office by a president-elect, in line with Article 141 of the Constitution.

It seeks to ensure a smooth transfer of executive authority before and after a presidential election.

The Committee engaged representatives from the Ministry of Interior and National Administration, the Office of the Deputy President, the State Department for Parliamentary Affairs, the Head of Public Service, the Office of the Attorney General, and the National Police Service to gather their views.

Dr. Aurelia Rono, Principal Secretary for Parliamentary Affairs, affirmed her department’s full support for the Bill, a position echoed by the State Department for Internal Security and the Attorney General’s office.

Henry Mwaura, Head of Legal at the Office of the Deputy President, also expressed conditional support, proposing an amendment to Clause 9(f) to explicitly include the Deputy President-elect in the provision of necessary facilities and personnel.

The office also recommended revisions to Clauses 18(2) and 18(3) regarding the Committee’s responsibilities and timelines for providing information.

Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja appeared before the Committee, confirming the National Police Service’s backing for the Bill while suggesting minor amendments.

The Committee emphasized the need to review the composition of the Assumption of Office Committee to clarify the roles of individual members.

It also recommends setting specific timelines for actions currently outlined under Clauses 8(3)(b), 14, 15, 20(2), 21(2), 23(2), and 24(1).

The Committee is expected to compile its report on the Bill, which will be tabled in Parliament when the House resumes next week.