The Senate has resolved to grant a 45-day extension for the consideration of the Conflict of Interest Bill 2025 following President William Ruto’s reservations on the proposed legislation.

The move was approved during the Tuesday, May 20, 2025, Senate sitting after a motion to extend the review period was tabled and passed without opposition.

The bill, initially passed by Parliament on April 8, 2025, was referred back by the President on April 30, 2025, under Article 115(1)(b) of the Constitution. The President expressed reservations over certain provisions of the legislation, necessitating further scrutiny before it could be signed into law.

In response, the Speaker of the Senate referred the matter to the Standing Committee on Justice, Legal Affairs, and Human Rights on May 6, 2025, in line with Standing Order 172. The committee was initially expected to table its report within 14 days, a deadline that fell on May 20, 2025.

Extension

Recognising the need for a thorough review, the Senate unanimously approved a motion to extend the Committee’s time by 45 calendar days. The Speaker, Amason Kingi, noted that the new deadline for the report will be Tuesday, July 8, 2025.

“The Senate resolves to extend the time for the consideration of the Conflict of Interest Bill 2025 by a further 45 calendar days,” he stated during the session.

The vote saw no opposition, with Senators vocally backing the motion. The decision allows the Committee more time to analyse the President’s reservations and make informed recommendations to the House.

The Conflict of Interest Bill 2025 aims to enhance transparency and integrity within public service by setting clear boundaries between public duties and private interests. It includes provisions for mandatory disclosures, penalties for breaches, and mechanisms to manage potential conflicts.