NAIROBI, Kenya — Elgeyo Marakwet Senator William Kisang has been unanimously elected chairman of the Senate Energy Committee after Siaya Senator and ODM leader Oburu Oginga stepped down from the position.
Oburu announced his resignation during a committee meeting on Tuesday, saying the decision was voluntary and resulted from circumstances beyond his control.
“The reasons (why I am vacating) are beyond my own self-control. I have resigned. Nobody should say that I have been removed,” Oburu said.
He dismissed suggestions that his departure resulted from a political power struggle, describing the transition as peaceful.
“There is no coup here. There is only a peaceful transfer, and whoever you elect will peacefully take over. I thank everyone once again,” he added.
Oburu will, however, remain a member of the Energy Committee after relinquishing the chairmanship.
Kisang, who previously served as the committee’s vice chairperson, was elected unanimously to succeed Oburu.
He thanked committee members for their confidence and acknowledged the challenge of taking over from the ODM party leader.
“I want to take this opportunity to thank members of this committee for having confidence in me and electing me as the chair. I am taking over from the ODM party leader whose shoes are very big,” Kisang said.
He pledged to work with committee members to advance access to electricity and address energy challenges affecting Kenyans.
“We are going to use your guidance as our patron to ensure our people get power (electricity),” he said.
Nominated Senator Beatrice Ogolla was subsequently elected vice chairperson, succeeding Kisang.
Ogolla thanked Oburu and ODM for supporting her appointment and expressed appreciation to committee members for entrusting her with the leadership role.
“I want to thank the party leader for holding our hands. Also want to thank members of this committee for giving me this chance,” she said.
Oburu’s resignation comes as political activity intensifies ahead of the 2027 General Election. His departure from the demanding committee leadership role is expected to allow him to devote greater attention to ODM affairs and the party’s preparations for the upcoming political contest.
The Senate Energy Committee plays a key oversight role in matters relating to Kenya’s electricity sector, petroleum, renewable energy and other areas of national energy policy.
