The Legislative Process: How a Bill Becomes Law in Kenya

A bill typically moves through First Reading (introduction, no debate), Second Reading (general debate on principle), the Committee Stage (clause-by-clause scrutiny and amendments), Third Reading (final vote), and — where the bill affects counties — passage through the other chamber as well.

Once both relevant chambers pass a bill, it goes to the President, who may assent (making it law), or refer it back with reservations, in which case Parliament can either accept the changes or override them with the required majority.

Members of the public can engage at the Committee Stage through written memoranda and public participation forums — a right protected under Article 118 of the Constitution.