Hansard staff raise concerns over AI 

By , May 15, 2025

The Hansard Association of Kenya (HAK) has raised concerns over the growing influence of emerging technologies, particularly Artificial Intelligence (AI), warning that if not carefully managed, they could compromise the accuracy and integrity of parliamentary records. 

Speaking during the 7th Annual Hansard Association of Kenya Conference held at a Mombasa hotel, Deputy Clerk of the National Assembly, Serah Kioko, expressed worries over the delicate balance between embracing technological advancements and safeguarding the reliability of official parliamentary transcripts. 

“Hansard personnel are the silent custodians of our democracy,” she said, “But I must admit, I’m wary of technology. If AI claims it can transcribe a heated, lengthy debate with 95 per cent accuracy, that’s a cause for concern. We must find a way to harmonise human oversight with technological tools”. 

Kioko pointed out the potential for transcription errors, especially when speakers in Parliament communicate with heavy dialects or strong mother tongue influence, noting that such nuances can be challenging for automated systems to interpret accurately. 

Beyond the technological risks, Kioko expressed deep concern over the demanding working conditions Hansard staff face, including long hours glued to computer screens and the physical toll of the job. 

Vital records 

“We used to worry about unemployment,” she said, “Now we see well-paid professionals, even those driving luxury cars, succumbing to mental health issues. Hansard personnel often suffer from back pain and eye strain because they spend extended hours tracking every word spoken in Parliament to meet tight deadlines with precision.” 

HAK President George Wanyoko, on his part, noted that Hansard records are far more than mere transcripts. 

“They are legal documents, academic references, and vital records used in high-stakes proceedings,” he said. “Any inaccuracies can have serious consequences. That’s why Hansard must be treated with the utmost care.” 

Garissa County Assembly Speaker Abdi Idle Gure echoed those sentiments, lauding the dedication of Hansard professionals, whom he described as the first to arrive and last to leave the parliamentary precincts. 

“While others leave at 5 pm, Hansard officers remain behind—often working late into the night—to ensure accurate and timely reporting,” Gure said. 

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