The political landscape in Parliament is set for a major shake-up as Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro and other allies of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua face removal from key committees. This move comes as part of a wider effort by the Kenya Kwanza administration to appease the opposition, Azimio la Umoja, following a court ruling that stripped Kenya Kwanza of its majority status.
The changes, expected to take place this week, will see Azimio gain control of five crucial committees traditionally chaired by the majority side. Among those on the chopping block is Nyoro, who currently heads the Budget and Appropriations Committee. His removal is seen as part of a broader strategy to sideline Gachagua loyalists who have been accused of failing to push the government’s agenda in Parliament.
Nyoro, who did not participate in the recent vote to impeach Gachagua, has maintained a low political profile in recent months. His committee is set to be handed over to an Azimio-aligned MP, marking a significant shift in parliamentary power dynamics. Speaker Moses Wetang’ula confirmed ongoing negotiations between Kenya Kwanza and Azimio, stating that the Liaison Committee would oversee the Budget Policy Statement until a new committee is constituted.
Senate Majority Leader Aaron Cheruiyot defended the move, questioning the logic of allowing government critics to continue leading critical committees. “If you no longer support government policy out there, surely, won’t I be stupid to expect that when I give you a chance to chair those committees you will not do the opposite?” he posed.
Other Gachagua allies targeted for removal include Embakasi North MP James Gakuya (Trade, Investment, and Cooperatives Committee), Kipipiri MP Wanjiku Muhia (Regional Integration Committee), and Runyenjes MP Eric Karemba (Labour Committee). The Health Committee, currently chaired by Endebes MP Robert Pukose, is also up for grabs as part of the negotiated power redistribution.
In the Senate, a similar purge has seen pro-Gachagua lawmakers ousted from key positions. Those affected include Murang’a Senator Joe Nyutu, Kiambu Senator Karungo wa Thang’wa, Nyandarua Senator John Methu, Kirinyaga Senator James Murango, and Kajiado Senator Kanar Seki.
Senate Minority Leader Stewart Madzayo confirmed the reorganization, emphasizing that Azimio had secured control over five Senate committees. Notably, Siaya Senator Oburu Oginga will chair the Energy Committee, Mombasa Senator Mohammed Faki the Lands Committee, Migori Senator Eddy Oketch the Transport Committee, Nominated Senator Betty Montet the Education Committee, and Kwale Senator Boi Issa Juma the Trade Committee.
In addition to committee chairperson positions, Azimio has reportedly secured five vice-chair slots in traditionally majority-led committees. This development follows their earlier threats to disrupt parliamentary proceedings in protest of the Kenya Kwanza coalition’s loss of its majority status.
These latest developments signal a shifting power balance in Parliament, with Kenya Kwanza seeking to consolidate its influence while accommodating opposition demands. Whether this realignment will stabilize the government or deepen divisions remains to be seen.
