Former National Assembly Speaker Kenneth Marende is the best candidate to restore the integrity of Parliament, Vihiga Senator-elect Godfrey Osotsi has said.
Marende served as the Speaker of the National Assembly between 2008 and 2013 when most of his decisions were hailed as Solomonic.
The former Speaker has been fronted by the Azimio coalition to succeed Justin Muturi.
Azimio leader Raila Odinga asked Marende to drop out of the Vihiga governor race in May in favour of Wilbur Ottichilo promising that he would be considered for the Senate Speaker job.
The coalition had also initially fronted Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka for the National Assembly Speaker seat before switching to Marende.
Marende will face Bungoma Senator-elect Moses Wetang'ula who is being fronted by the Kenya Kwanza.
Parliament is set to convene this week with the swearing-in of members and election of the Speaker top on the agenda.
Osotsi on Monday said Marende's tenure as Speaker brought sobriety to debates and development.
He also hailed the Azimio move to front Marende for the position saying it was the best idea.
Osotsi says Marende’s experience is most needed now to unite the Kenya Kwanza and Azimio camps so that the country can move forward.
“We believe this country is at a critical stage that needs a Speaker who has integrity, impartiality and the ability to unite legislators across the political divide,” Osotsi said.
Osotsi says Marende has all the qualities needed to lead the House.
(Edited by Tabnacha O)
