Inaugural Staff Open Day at Parliament: Key Highlights

The National Assembly of Kenya on Monday, June 23, 2025 held its inaugural Staff Open Day, bringing together employees from various directorates and departments in a powerful demonstration of unity, collaboration, and institutional reflection.

Held within the Parliament Buildings, the event offered staff a rare opportunity to step away from routine, reconnect with colleagues, and reaffirm their shared identity as public servants. Themed “Level Up National Assembly: Innovate, Collaborate, Commit,” the Open Day emphasized solidarity, cross-departmental synergy, and professional development.

The gathering comes against the backdrop of nationwide Gen-Z-led protests commemorating the first anniversary of the June 25, 2024 breach, when protestors forcibly entered Parliament during demonstrations against the Finance Bill. That moment, etched in Kenya’s legislative history, triggered wide-ranging institutional introspection and reform.

Gracing the Open Day as Chief Guest was Speaker of the National Assembly and Chairperson of the Parliamentary Service Commission (PSC),Moses Wetang’ula, who led staff in celebrating the strides made since that turbulent moment.

“Behind every title and task is a public servant whose effort sustains the wheels of democracy. Today is not just a celebration—it is a reaffirmation of our unity and commitment to excellence,” said Speaker Wetang’ula.

He further acknowledged the trauma and disruption of the previous year but hailed the Parliament staff for their resilience and professionalism. The Speaker also commended the significant renovations undertaken on damaged offices and structures, noting that Parliament had used the crisis as a catalyst to rebuild stronger and more inclusively.

Among the most notable reforms has been the enhancement of access for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs). During last year’s emergency, two Members of Parliament living with disabilities faced serious challenges evacuating the chamber due to inaccessible lifts and evacuation tunnels.

“This was a wake-up call. Today, I’m proud to say we’ve reconfigured key spaces, constructed ramps in all exits and created safer, inclusive evacuation routes,” said Clerk of the National Assembly, Mr. Samuel Njoroge in his address.

Also in attendance was Faith Gitau, MP for Nyandarua and Chairperson of the PSC Staff Welfare Committee, who highlighted ongoing efforts to improve staff well-being, professional growth, and inclusion within the parliamentary service.

“We have walked through difficult seasons, but today’s gathering reminds us of our collective strength and commitment to national service,” Gitau remarked.

In preparation for the Open Day, staff across directorates were invited to complete an anonymous online survey to share their views, challenges, and ideas for institutional reform.

The feedback informed much of the day's dialogue, which featured motivational sessions, wellness discussions, and departmental exhibitions showcasing the diverse roles within the legislature.

“Today reminds us that while we serve under different dockets, we are bound by a common duty—to serve the people of Kenya with integrity and efficiency,” Clerk Njoroge emphasized.

As the country reflects on the first anniversary of the 2024 breach, the Staff Open Day stands as a renewed symbol of institutional healing, resilience, and a forward-looking Parliament—one that is committed to learning from the past and building a future anchored on unity, reform, and public trust.

The 2025 Open Day sets the foundation for future annual gatherings, with the aim of fostering a stronger and more collaborative work environment within the National Assembly Service.