Senators Unveil Draft Constitutional Bill to Supercharge Senate Powers—Rebalance Looms.

In a landmark move shaking up Kenya’s political architecture, a group of senators has drafted a constitutional amendment bill aimed at significantly expanding the Senate’s authority.

The proposal marks a strategic bid to reassert county-level representation and create a stronger check on National Assembly dominance.Sources confirm the bill seeks to empower senators with enhanced oversight and legislative intervention tools, including veto capabilities on national legislation affecting county governments.

The proposed reforms would also formalize Senate participation in the budgetary review process, transforming it from a largely advisory body into a full-fledged counterbalance in governance.

Top priorities under the new bill include granting the Senate binding input on national appointments impacting devolution, and the authority to mandate government performance audits for county-level projects.

Backers argue this is necessary to correct longstanding imbalances that have diluted county autonomy and bypassed devolved oversight altogether.The reshuffle comes amid deepening frustration over the National Assembly’s dominance in shaping the devolution agenda.

Senator proponents say the new powers will curb central government overreach, protect counties from rushed legislation, and ensure county voices are not drowned out in critical national policy decisions.Critics warn the proposal risks institutional gridlock and legal friction with the National Assembly.

If enacted, the bill would force significant constitutional realignment and require fresh political consensus across coalitions.The Senate plans to publish the full amendment text in the coming days and has set a public participation window ahead of formal tabling.

Constitutional lawyers caution that any proposed changes must navigate complex thresholds—including a referendum if fundamental structures like legislative vetoes are altered.

With 2027 preparations underway and tensions surfacing between national and county leadership, this bold push to rebalance power sets the stage for a constitutional showdown. The Senate insists change is urgent—but whether it will pass the political test remains to be seen.