Editor's Review

The parliamentary committee on appointments had presented a report indicating that Malonza failed the vetting test.

Cabinet Secretary Nominee for Tourism Peninah Malonza has breathed a sigh of relief after the National Assembly overturned the Parliamentary committee on appointment's decision to reject her for the role.

The plenary on Wednesday agreed to give Malonza a chance to serve in that capacity despite the committee on appointment finding her unfit.

MPs voted against the rejection of Malonza paving the way for amendment of the report through a motion.

Kitui Woman Representative Irene Kasalu moved the motion that sought to amend the report.

“The upshot of that vote is that you have approved of all the nominees after Mercy Kiiru Njeru you have negative the rejection of Malonza which means Malonza is in purgatory,” Wetang’ula said.

National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula. PHOTO | COURTESY

“Next move is that I have received a notice of motion from Irene Kasalu, I now give her the opportunity to move the motion and once we have a seconder you allow the chair to put the question."

The MPs unanimously voted to give Malonza a chance to serve in the capacity of the CS meaning that all CSs nominated by President William Ruto have now been approved.

While presenting the report on their vetting, Majority leader Kimani Ichung'wa said Malonza failed to demonstrate her suitability for the role.

"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.