Former Wajir Woman Representative Fatuma Ibrahim Ali has been appointed as a non-MP commissioner to the Parliamentary Service Commission (PSC). The National Assembly approved her nomination, putting a close ally of former ODM leader, the late Raila Odinga, and current party leader Dr Oburu Oginga, in one of the key bodies overseeing the administration of Parliament. Ali takes over from Rachel Ameso, whose term as commissioner has ended.
Ali, a former East African Legislative Assembly member, was selected from a pool of 75 eligible applicants who applied for the position after it was advertised in August. The PSC shortlisted 12 candidates for interviews, with Ali emerging with the highest score at the end of the selection process. The recruitment process involved assessment of the candidates' academic and professional qualifications, parliamentary experience, leadership skills, and integrity.
The Parliamentary Service Commission Commissioner, Patrick Makau, told MPs that the recruitment process included public participation and background verification of shortlisted candidates by relevant State agencies. Makau said the commission was satisfied that Ali possessed the personal qualities required to serve as a commissioner, including integrity, accountability, communication, and interpersonal skills.
The position was advertised on August 14 through the Kenya Gazette, newspapers of national circulation, and the Parliament website. The recruitment process involved consideration of applications, shortlisting, public participation, verification, and interviews before the successful candidate was forwarded to Parliament. Ali's appointment was backed by several MPs, who cited her experience in Parliament and public service.
MP Adan Keynan pointed to Ali's previous experience in Parliament and public service, saying her understanding of parliamentary affairs would be an asset to the commission. Keynan said Ali's experience as a former MP, EALA member, and public servant gave her an understanding of the needs of Parliament. He added that Ali would add value to the commission, which is responsible for the welfare and administration of Parliament.
MP Yussuf Haji also supported the nomination, citing Ali's long experience in public affairs. Haji said Ali had passed through many stages and had vast experience, and he was sure the Commission had critically looked at all those qualifications. The PSC is established under Article 127 of the Constitution and is tasked with providing services and facilities necessary for Parliament to effectively perform its functions.
With the National Assembly's approval, Ali now joins the commission as the female non-MP commissioner, replacing Ameso. The commission also oversees parliamentary staff and is mandated to safeguard the independence and institutional capacity of Parliament. Ali's appointment marks a significant milestone in her career, which has been characterized by her involvement in public service and parliamentary affairs.
Key points
- Fatuma Ali was selected from 75 applicants for the PSC commissioner position.
- Ali's appointment was approved by the National Assembly after a rigorous selection process.
- The PSC is responsible for the welfare and administration of Parliament, and Ali's experience is expected to be an asset to the commission.
