Nyeri Town MP Duncan Mathenge has been elected unopposed as the new Vice Chairperson of the National Assembly’s Cohesion and Equal Opportunities Committee.
Mathenge takes over the position left vacant following the tragic death of former Kasipul MP Ong’ondo Were.
Lucy Kimathi, Head of the General Purposes Department, oversaw the election held at Parliament Buildings.
Mathenge emerged as the sole nominee for the vice chairmanship after being the only member to submit nomination papers in accordance with parliamentary procedures.
“Mathenge is the only candidate who returned his papers for the position of Vice Chairperson. I therefore declare him duly elected,” Kimathi announced.
Mathenge replaces Were, who was fatally shot near the City Mortuary roundabout in April this year, a tragedy that shook both Parliament and the nation.
In his acceptance speech, Mathenge expressed his appreciation for the trust placed in him by fellow committee members, pledging to serve with diligence and unity.
“I thank members for the confidence they have shown in me. I take this responsibility seriously and will rely on your continued support as I discharge my duties,” he stated.
Committee Chairperson Adan Yussuf Haji (Mandera West) led fellow members in congratulating Mathenge, emphasising his readiness for the role.
“Mathenge is not new to this Committee. He has served diligently, and we are confident that he will meet, if not exceed, our expectations,” said Hon. Haji.
Nakuru County MP Liza Chelule echoed these sentiments, underscoring the spirit of unity that defined the election process.
“For the sake of unity, members agreed there was no need for a contest. Settling on Mathenge was a collective decision,” she noted.
Charles Kamuren (Baringo South) took a moment to honour the late Were, proposing that the committee pay a courtesy visit to his family during its upcoming field activities in Nyanza.
“Today’s election brings back fresh memories of Were’s untimely death. As a gesture of respect, it would be fitting for the Committee to visit his family,” he suggested.
