The National Assembly has resolved to withdraw the Livestock Bill (National Assembly Bill No. 34 of 2024) following approval from the House Business Committee to stay its first reading, originally slated for next week.
The decision comes amidst rising concerns over misinformation and public understanding of the Bill’s implications.
The Majority Leader, Hon. Kimani Ichung’wah, made the announcement while delivering a statement on the upcoming business of the National Assembly. He emphasized the need for comprehensive public and stakeholder sensitization by the Ministry of Agriculture before the Bill can proceed further in the legislative process.
“We got the approval of the House Business Committee this Tuesday to stay the first reading of the Bill and any further consideration of the Bill to allow the Ministry to conduct sensitization of the public and stakeholders on the contents of the Bill,” said Ichung’wah.
He noted that the Bill could face similar opposition as the Finance Bill of 2024 if not properly communicated, referencing the widespread online propaganda that has already begun to circulate.
Ichung’wah also confirmed that a letter has been sent to the Principal Secretary (PS) of Agriculture, requesting the commencement of the sensitization process.
The outcome of this public engagement will determine whether the Bill proceeds in its current form or if amendments will be necessary based on the feedback received.