Former Wajir Woman Representative Fatuma Ali has emerged as the preferred candidate for the female non-MP commissioner position in the Parliamentary Service Commission. She secured 80.48 per cent in the selection interviews, outshining other contenders. The Parliamentary Service Commission, chaired by National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula, made the decision and tabled a report before Parliament on September 15. Ali's high score paved the way for her nomination to the National Assembly and the Senate for approval.
The selection process involved interviews held on September 10, where Ali topped a field of candidates. Prof Jacqueline Oduol was the closest challenger to Ali, finishing second with 61.67 per cent. Amina Abdalla followed in third place with 56.19 per cent, while Dr Brenda Khanani obtained 53.33 per cent. Stellah Chepkemboi recorded 47.14 per cent, taking the fifth position. Other candidates, including Dennitah Ghati, Mary Muthoka, and Diana Mwacharo, also received scores, but Ali's performance placed her ahead of the rest.
The Parliamentary Service Commission's decision was based solely on the candidates' performance in the interviews. According to the commission's report, signed by Speaker Wetang’ula, Ali's high score formed the basis for her recommendation to Parliament. The report stated that the commission resolved to recommend Fatuma Ali, the candidate who ranked highest in the oral interviews, to the National Assembly and the Senate for their consideration and approval.
Fatuma Ali has a background in elective and public positions, having served as the pioneer Wajir Woman Representative before leaving the National Assembly in 2017. She lost her seat in the 2017 election to Fatuma Gedi but continued to serve in other capacities. Ali joined the East Africa Legislative Assembly as a nominated member, serving there until 2022. Her public service career also includes a stint as a commissioner at the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) and work with UN Women.
Ali is credited with leading a report that criticised the government’s handling of human rights issues. Her experience in both elective and public positions makes her a strong candidate for the Parliamentary Service Commission seat. The commission plays a crucial role in the administration of the Parliament, and Ali's nomination is expected to be considered by the National Assembly and the Senate.
Other candidates who participated in the interviews included Sunjeev Birdi, who scored 35 per cent, and Betty Nyage, who obtained 34.76 per cent. Margaret Nyakoboke did not participate in the interviews. The selection process was chaired by Speaker Wetang’ula, ensuring a transparent and fair evaluation of the candidates.
The Parliamentary Service Commission's recommendation of Fatuma Ali marks a significant step in the appointment process. Her nomination will now be considered by the National Assembly and the Senate, where she will require approval to take up the position. If approved, Ali will fill the female non-MP commissioner seat left vacant by Rachel Ameso.
Key points
- Fatuma Ali scored 80.48 per cent in the selection interviews.
- Prof Jacqueline Oduol finished second with 61.67 per cent.
- The Parliamentary Service Commission's decision was based solely on the candidates' performance in the interviews.
