National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has directed parliamentary committees to vet and table reports on President William Ruto’s nominees for Principal Secretary positions by April 22, 2025.
This marks the beginning of a crucial parliamentary process that will determine whether the nominees assume their respective government roles.
In a communication from the chair, Wetang’ula confirmed receiving the list of nominees through a gazette notice dated March 20, 2025, and subsequently directed the relevant committees to conduct approval hearings in line with parliamentary procedures.
He emphasized the need for the committees to immediately commence the process and ensure their reports are submitted by the set deadline.
This development follows a resolution passed on February 13, 2025, which allows the Speaker to refer nominations from the President or other executive offices to the relevant committees during recess, eliminating the need to recall the entire House.
The list of nominees includes individuals nominated for various state departments, with some having held key positions in government and the private sector.
As part of the vetting process, the Clerk of the National Assembly has been tasked with notifying MPs and facilitating the hearings. The approval process is set to begin on April 4, 2025, and will conclude by April 7, 2025, with nominees appearing before the relevant committees for scrutiny.
Speaker Wetang’ula has also called for public participation, inviting Kenyans to submit representations regarding the suitability of the nominees.
In accordance with Article 118(1)(b) of the Constitution and Section 6(9) of the Public Appointments (Parliamentary Approval) Act, those with objections must submit written statements on oath, supported by evidence, by April 3, 2025, at 5 PM.
The vetting process is expected to be rigorous, with legislators evaluating the nominees’ qualifications, experience, and integrity before making their recommendations to the National Assembly.
