• The Ruai MCA served twice as a councillor and now as a ward representative after devolution.
• Kamangu was also facing an impeachment motion where 59 MCAs had appended their signatures.
Image: FILE
Nairobi County Assembly Speaker Benson Mutura has announced the vacancy of Deputy Speaker's position following the resignation of Ruai MCA John Kamangu.
Kamangu on Thursday afternoon read his resignation letter during the plenary session.
"After soul searching and consultation with the Jubilee leadership of this assembly, I have decided as a believer of the handshake I wish to tender my humble resignation to this assembly effective September 10, 2020," he said.
"It should be noted that this county is bigger than all of us. I am wishing the next holder of the office of the deputy speaker all the best and I promise to support this assembly in any capacity."
The Ruai MCA served twice as a councillor and now as a ward representative after devolution.
He also deputised former Speaker Beatrice Elachi during her tenure at the assembly.
Kamangu was also facing an impeachment motion where 59 MCAs had appended their signatures.
His resignation was an agreement between the Jubilee and ODM parties.
They agreed that they will support Former Makadara MP Benson Mutura as the speaker and ODM party gets the deputy speaker’s position.
Majority Leader Abdi Ibrahim Hassan referred Kamangu as a political guru who has been a Nairobi leader before devolution.
"Kamangu has served this house with honour and as Jubilee Party, we are in support of his resignation and appreciate the work he has done," he said.
Minority Leader Michael Ogada acknowledged Kamangu's resignation noting that it was a bold step taken to strengthen the handshake.
"As minority side we are indebted and you can count on my party (ODM) to collaborate to move the assembly forward," he said.
Minority Whip Peter Imwatok said Kamangu was a 'father' of the house, and has left big shoes to be filled.
Following the resignation, Speaker Mutura has announced the election of a new deputy speaker will be conducted on Tuesday next week.
ODM Party last month had nominated Baba Dogo MCA Geoffrey Majiwa to the position.
According to Nairobi City County Assembly Standing Order 15 (4), the procedure of electing a deputy speaker shall with necessary modification, be the same as that prescribed for the election of the speaker.