A fierce yet discreet battle is underway in Parliament as Members of Parliament (MPs) and Senators engage in intense lobbying for key committee positions ahead of an imminent restructuring.
Reports indicate that the leadership is planning a major reshuffle in both the National Assembly and Senate, targeting committee chairpersons and vice chairpersons. Lawmakers perceived to be loyal to former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua are said to be the primary targets of this radical purge, as political realignments take shape.
A well-placed source within the National Assembly leadership revealed that MPs have been mobilizing and negotiating for specific committee positions, particularly those regarded as powerful or influential. Regional blocs have reportedly formed alliances to claim leadership in critical committees.
“It is true, members are mobilizing as regions and laying claim to specific committees where they want to be chair or deputy chair,” the source disclosed.
The reconstitution of these committees follows National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula’s directive on Tuesday, citing the need for efficient parliamentary operations. According to the Speaker, 18 committees in the National Assembly will be restructured to enhance the execution of parliamentary duties.
“The affected committees will be reconstituted to ensure the seamless execution of parliamentary functions,” Wetang’ula stated.
In the Senate, a similar scenario is playing out, with leadership determined to restructure all 19 committees. The move has generated unease among senators, many of whom fear losing their positions or being sidelined in the power reconfiguration.
On Tuesday, the Senate approved the membership of the Senate Business Committee, a crucial body responsible for setting the legislative agenda. The reconstitution of other committees is expected to follow soon, further heightening anxiety among senators.
The ongoing lobbying underscores the significance of committee leadership in shaping legislative priorities and influencing government oversight. As MPs and senators scramble for these coveted positions, political maneuvers and backroom deals are expected to intensify in the coming days.
The restructuring process could redefine power dynamics within Parliament, with party loyalty and regional interests playing a significant role in the selection process. The coming weeks will be pivotal in determining the new faces of committee leadership and the impact of these changes on parliamentary business.
