NAIROBI, Kenya- With a strong push for accountability in Kenya’s National Assembly, Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah has put committee chairpersons and vice-chairpersons on notice.
Repeated absences from parliamentary sessions, he warns, could result in impeachment—an option he isn’t afraid to exercise, considering his past role in impeachment efforts, such as that of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
Ichung’wah’s comments come as the House grapples with quorum issues, impacting key legislative business and frustrating the progress of essential duties.
In a recent address, Ichung’wah expressed frustration with committee leaders’ attendance records, specifically during sessions where Roads and Infrastructure Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir was scheduled to answer pressing questions.
With over 60 committee leaders in the House, Ichung’wah asserted that quorum issues should be a non-issue.
He pointed to Article 121 of Kenya’s Constitution, which mandates a minimum of 50 members in the National Assembly and 15 in the Senate to conduct official business, as a benchmark that should easily be met.
He recalled last week’s leadership conference, chaired by Speaker Moses Wetang’ula, where members voiced concerns about absenteeism, especially among chairs and vice-chairs who hold added responsibilities.
“This House has no fewer than 60 committee leaders. We only need 50 members to conduct business,” Ichung’wah emphasized, adding that with the House’s broader leadership, there are over 70 members available to ensure smooth proceedings.
With the National Assembly scheduled for a month-long recess in just a few weeks, Ichung’wah made it clear: committee leaders must prioritize attendance.
Reminding them of their responsibilities, he warned, “If you’re a chair or vice-chair of a committee, you must be present in the House at 2:30 PM.”
He stressed the critical role that committee heads play in ensuring efficient House business by responding to questions, providing legislative updates, and representing the House in matters of public interest.
Speaker Wetang’ula echoed this sentiment at the recent Naivasha retreat, warning that chairpersons and vice-chairpersons of key committees—such as departmental, audit, and appropriations—could be ousted if absenteeism persists.
Wetang’ula also noted that these roles come with added privileges, including enhanced compensation and travel benefits, which should motivate leaders to attend House sessions regularly.
With calls for a “purge” growing louder, committee leaders face an unambiguous choice—step up to their responsibilities or face the possibility of impeachment.
