Alego Usonga MP Sam Atandi has been elected unopposed as the chairperson of the National Assembly’s Budget and Appropriations Committee.
Atandi was the sole candidate who submitted nomination papers before the deadline. According to parliamentary Standing Orders, interested members must submit their forms a day prior to the election.
During the announcement, the presiding clerk confirmed that Atandi’s nomination had been duly received, with Florence Jematia (Baringo Woman Representative) and Danson Mwashako (Taveta MP) serving as his proposer and seconder, respectively.
For the position of vice chairperson, Endebess MP Robert Pukose was nominated by Kitui Central MP Mulu Makali and seconded by Atandi. Since both candidates were unopposed, the clerk officially declared them elected without a vote.
Atandi takes over from Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro, who neither sought re-election nor attended the meeting.
Upon assuming office, Atandi thanked members of the influential budget committee and acknowledged the broad-based government for fostering inclusivity.
“This is a demanding responsibility, and I appreciate the support from my colleagues. We have reached this point because of the broad-based government,” he said.
He also expressed gratitude to his party leader Raila Odinga and President William Ruto for championing the concept of a broad-based government.
Atandi emphasized the committee’s critical role in resource allocation, pledging to ensure equitable distribution across all regions.
“We understand Kenya’s geographical diversity and the importance of fair resource sharing in maintaining peace and stability,” he noted.
Vice chairperson Pukose echoed this sentiment, reaffirming the committee’s commitment to equity in budgeting.
