Former Wajir Woman Representative Fatuma Ibrahim Ali has been sworn in as the new female non-Member Commissioner of the Parliamentary Service Commission (PSC). She replaces Rachel Ameso, whose term expired, and was appointed after a competitive recruitment process that attracted 75 eligible applicants. Ali emerged as the top candidate, having been assessed on her academic and professional qualifications, experience in public affairs, understanding of Parliament and the PSC, leadership and management skills, as well as Chapter Six requirements on leadership and integrity.
Ali's appointment was approved by the Senate on October 1 and endorsed by the National Assembly on Wednesday. She takes up the position with a strong background in public service, having served as Wajir Woman Representative in the 11th Parliament and as a member of the East African Legislative Assembly. Ali has also worked closely with National Assembly Speaker and PSC chairman Moses Wetang'ula in the past. Wetang'ula welcomed Ali to the commission, saying her experience in Parliament and public service would strengthen the PSC.
Speaking after taking the oath at County Hall, Parliament Buildings, Ali said consensus would guide her work at the commission. She emphasized the importance of consensus in decision-making, saying it would help the commission remain united and focused on its constitutional mandate while protecting the interests of Parliament. Ali thanked Parliament, the PSC leadership, her political party, and those who supported her appointment. She also recalled her previous working relationship with Wetang'ula, saying they had worked together during her time in Parliament and her bid for the East African Legislative Assembly.
Wetang'ula said consensus was already the preferred method of decision-making in the commission, and that they had never voted on any issue. He challenged Ali to put the interests of Parliament, MPs, staff, and the institution of democracy above personal, sectarian, or regional interests. Wetang'ula also praised Ameso for her contribution and urged Ali to build on her predecessor's work. He expressed confidence that Ali would add value to the commission.
PSC Commissioner Johnson Muthama said Ali was joining a commission with a heavy workload and assured her of the support of her colleagues. Muthama noted that as non-elected commissioners, a lot was expected from them, but that they had great support from the leadership of the chairman. Likoni MP Mishi Mboko, who has known Ali for over 20 years, welcomed her to the commission, saying she had demonstrated experience and integrity during her years in public service.
Nyeri Senator Wahome Wamatinga and Nyamira Senator Okong'o Omogeni also congratulated Ali on her appointment. Wamatinga said Ali's experience in public affairs would be useful in the committees she would serve in, and encouraged her to share her experience with colleagues as Parliament prepares for the next General Election. Omogeni noted that Ali's performance in the recruitment process reflected her experience in public affairs.
The PSC is established under Article 127 of the Constitution and is responsible for providing services and facilities necessary for the effective functioning of Parliament. It also oversees the Parliamentary Service, appoints and supervises staffers. With her experience and commitment to consensus, Ali is expected to make a positive impact at the commission.
Key points
- Fatuma Ibrahim Ali was sworn in as the new female non-Member Commissioner of the Parliamentary Service Commission.
- Ali's appointment was approved by the Senate and endorsed by the National Assembly.
- She emphasized the importance of consensus in decision-making at the commission.
