Parliament to Decide Fate of 20 Cabinet Nominees in Today's Session

Today, the Parliament is scheduled to review the report regarding the vetting process of the Cabinet Secretary nominees.

This comes after the Committee on Appointments concluded its assessment and prepared the document for presentation to the House. The vetting process, which spanned four intensive days and scrutinized 20 nominees, has been the subject of significant public interest. The report to be tabled includes recommendations for each nominee and a minority report. Once presented, the plenary session will engage in a thorough debate before voting on each nominee's approval or rejection. Initial indications suggest a majority of committee members are inclined to approve all nominees for appointment.

National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang'ula, who chairs the committee, reveals that over 1,300 submissions were received from the public regarding the nominees. However, many were dismissed due to inappropriate content or procedural shortcomings. The tabling of the report will be introduced as a special motion under Standing Order No. 61, seeking the House's resolution to approve the appointments in accordance with public appointment regulations.

Parliament operates within a 28-day window to address the nominations, after which candidates are deemed approved if no decision is made. Approved names will be forwarded to the President for formal appointment, with the swearing-in ceremony anticipated for Friday, contingent on Parliament concluding the process by Thursday. The vetting process has highlighted the diverse backgrounds and qualifications of the nominees.

For instance, Treasury CS nominee John Mbadi disclosed a net worth of KSh 380 million, while Trade CS nominee Salim Mvurya reported KSh 158 million. Tourism CS nominee Rebecca Miano, with her extensive leadership experience, stated a net worth of KSh 444,000. Throughout the process, emphasis has been placed on transparency and accountability in public appointments. Speaker Wetang'ula stressed the importance of a thorough and fair vetting process to ensure only the most suitable candidates are appointed to these crucial positions.