Security concerns and how Parliament and county assemblies operate have taken centre stage, as Sergeants-at-Arms from across the country meet to discuss emerging challenges and possible solutions. The officers are now calling for stronger systems and greater use of technology to keep up with changing risks.
While speaking at the 3rd National Conference of Sergeants-at-Arms in Machakos, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen said that Kenya needs to rethink how it approaches security at these institutions. He cited new and emerging issues that are threatening these institutions.
Murkomen added that the role of Sergeants-at-Arms has changed and is not just about maintaining order in these institutions.
“These officers are not just about ceremony anymore. They are key in handling security, managing crises and making sure parliamentary rules are followed.”
The conference has attracted Sergeants-at-Arms from Parliament and all 47 county assemblies. They are meeting to share experiences and improve how they can work together.
Also present at the conference was Senate Clerk Jeremiah Nyegenye. While speaking at the conference, he noted that these institutions are facing new and more complex challenges. Among these challenges are security risks and new technology.
He urged the officers to be disciplined and maintain professionalism, saying that their work plays a big role in how smoothly Parliament and county assemblies run.
Murkomen also said new challenges, such as cyber attacks, misinformation, and misuse of technology, are emerging and are becoming common, and for this reason, the officers need to be trained and equipped to handle them.
He also said that they are working hard to ensure they improve security with various agencies while still recognizing Parliament’s independence.
National Assembly Clerk Samuel Njoroge praised the officers for the good work they do in maintaining order.
“We are united by one common purpose to uphold the dignity, order, and effectiveness of our legislative bodies. Every day, you create the environment that allows leaders to debate, disagree and ultimately make decisions on behalf of the people of Kenya,” he said.
The conference, which runs until March 29, is expected to come up with practical ideas on how to improve operations and security in legislative institutions across the country.