Kikuyu MP Kimani Ichung'wa has revealed that the vetting committee rejected Tourism CS Peninah Malonza due to her lack of administrative knowledge of the office.
He maintained that the National Assembly Committee on Appointment's decision was not an act of vindication of her suitability to hold public office.
"Honorable Speaker, the Committee in considering this particular nominee... we do state that the nominee did not demonstrate knowledge of topical administrative and technical issues touching on the Ministry of Tourism and Heritage," he said.
Ichung'wa added:
"Consequently, the nominee lacks requisite ability and experience to serve as a Cabinet Secretary for Tourism, Wildlife and Heritage."
Malonza appeared before the MPs for vetting on Wednesday, October 16.
He reiterated that the rejection reasons purely rested on the aforementioned reasons and an indictment on Malonza.
The lawmaker added that her credibility in terms of Chapter six of the Constitution, academic qualification and work experience was impressive.
Ichung'wa pointed out that Malonza holds a Master's degree in project planning and management, a Higher Diploma in psychology counselling management and a Bachelor of Arts in anthropology from the University of Nairobi.
She earned her undergraduate degree in 1998 and her master's in 2008.
"It is also important to state that the nominee did meet all the requirements of Chapter six on leadership and integrity, having obtained her clearance certificates just like all the other nominees from EACC, KRA, DCI, ORPP and HELB," he said.
He added that Malonza has not been charged in any court of law in the past three years and holds no office in any political party.
The Committee further noted that Malonza has never been dismissed from any office and holds no dual citizenship.
"The nominee's past leadership positions have been credible, as the MP said she has a "rich history" having served as the former Deputy Governor of Kitui County under former Governor Julius Malombe between 2013 and 2017."
She also worked in various positions for Compassion International between 2006 to 2013 and worked for AMREF in 1999.
