Gaming Operators Ask Senate to Annul Gambling Control Regulations 2026

The Association of Gaming Operators-Kenya (AGOK) has requested the Senate to repeal the Gambling Control Regulations, 2026, citing alleged procedural errors and provisions that could unfairly burden licensed operators. At a Senate Committee on Delegated Legislation meeting on Tuesday, AGOK's Vice Chairperson, Paul Mutegi, called for the committee to annul specific provisions and propose amendments to the regulations.

AGOK also urged the Senate to prevent a regulatory gap during the review process, asserting that the regulations did not adhere to the procedural requirements outlined in Part II of the Statutory Instruments Act. Additionally, the association claimed that certain provisions were inconsistent with the Act and other statutes, expressing concerns under Part III of the legislation.

Mutegi highlighted the excessive fees and minimum capital requirements, arguing that they could be perceived as taxation or create unnecessary barriers to entry, rather than simply covering regulatory costs. AGOK had previously communicated its concerns to the Executive but had not received a response through the proposed stakeholder engagement process.

The Chief Executive Officer of the Jockey Club of Kenya, Ben Lawrence, also testified before the committee, expressing concerns over inadequate public participation during the regulation's development. Lawrence emphasized that even when stakeholders were consulted, their input and recommendations were not sufficiently considered in the final regulations.

Following the presentations, the Senate committee decided to engage additional stakeholders before drafting a comprehensive report for the House's consideration. These further consultations aim to help the committee evaluate the concerns raised by gaming operators and other industry stakeholders before formulating its recommendations.