Nominated Senator Hamida Ali Kibwana has taken over leadership of the Senate Committee on Roads, Transportation and Housing, becoming its new chairperson after senators unanimously backed her to replace Migori Senator Eddy Oketch.
Kibwana, who is an Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) senator, was elected through a unanimous vote following her nomination by Marsabit Senator Mohamed Chute and seconding by Senator Peris Tobiko.
The exercise was conducted on Tuesday on behalf of the Clerk of the Senate by Mary Chesire, Director of Social Economic Affairs or Socio-Economic Committees, who subsequently announced Kibwana’s affirmation as chairperson.
Her election comes after Oketch moved to the position of Deputy Minority Whip, taking over the office previously held by former ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna.
Kibwana brings experience from several areas of parliamentary work, having served in Senate committees dealing with health, trade and special investigations.
Before joining Parliament, she was Head of Elections Operations and Strategy Team at the late Raila Odinga’s Presidential Secretariat. She also held senior positions in electoral projects both in Kenya and internationally.
Accepting the new role, Kibwana thanked senators for placing their confidence in her and called for teamwork as she begins leading the committee.
"Thank you senators I appreciate your trust and I thank you on the trust you've bestowed upon me. I believe I'm a team player and I encourage we always work together. I understand my hand of friendship."
Her election was welcomed by fellow senators, who pledged to support her as she assumes responsibility for the committee.
Laikipia Senator Joseph Kinyua assured Kibwana of their backing, saying, "We will support you. People should always support others and this is a good gesture."
Tobiko, who seconded Kibwana’s nomination, also congratulated her and expressed confidence in her ability to take on the role.
" I believe you've energy to serve and we congratulate you 100 percent."
The committee’s Vice Chairperson, Samburu Senator Steve Lelegwe, similarly pledged his support for Kibwana as she takes charge.
"We trust in your leadership and we assure to stand with you and push the agenda forward."
Kibwana now takes charge of a committee responsible for matters relating to roads, transportation and housing, key areas of infrastructure development and public investment.
Her election marks a change in the committee’s leadership following Oketch’s move into the Senate opposition leadership structure as Deputy Minority Whip.