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The National Assembly Committee on Trade, Industry & Cooperatives has called upon the Council of Governors (COG) and the Ministry of Co-operatives and Micro Small and Medium Enterprises Development to work together and find common ground.
Committee Chairperson, Hon. James Gakuya of Embakasi North constituency, emphasized the necessity of resolving the issues for the advancement of the cooperative sector and overall socio-economic growth.
“We cannot afford to let disagreements hinder the progress of crucial legislation like the Cooperatives Bill 2024. It is imperative that COG and the Ministry collaborate to iron out their differences,” stated Hon. Gakuya.
The Cooperatives Bill 2024 aims to establish a legal framework that promotes a sustainable and competitive cooperative sector. However, disagreements arose between COG and the Ministry, primarily concerning potential conflicts with constitutional provisions.
Bungoma Governor Ken Lusaka, chairperson of COG’s Agriculture, Livestock, and Cooperatives Committee, highlighted concerns about these conflicts.
“We need to ensure that the Cooperatives Bill aligns with constitutional principles to avoid any legal challenges in the future. Collaboration between COG and the Ministry is crucial for achieving this alignment,” Governor Lusaka remarked.
While the Ministry, represented by Cooperatives and MSME Development CS Simon Chelugui, emphasized the bill’s benefits and claimed to have obtained COG’s approval, Governor Lusaka clarified that consensus had not been reached. He urged for further dialogue to address the outstanding issues.
“We appreciate the efforts made by the Ministry, but it’s essential to resolve the concerns raised by COG before proceeding with the bill. We need to ensure that all stakeholders are on the same page,” added Vice Chairperson Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga.
Committee Chairperson Hon. Gakuya and Vice Chairperson Hon. Marianne Kitany (Aldai) intervened, urging COG and the Ministry to reconcile their differences within one week and present a unified document to the Committee.
The Committee’s directive emphasizes the importance of cooperation and consensus-building in shaping legislation that supports the growth and sustainability of the cooperative sector, a vital component of Kenya’s economic development.