National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah has issued a firm warning to committee chairpersons and vice-chairpersons, urging them to attend House sessions regularly or face potential impeachment. This directive comes after continued frustration over absenteeism, which led to quorum issues during a recent session with Roads and Infrastructure Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir.
Highlighting the importance of attendance, Ichung’wah referred to Article 121 of the Constitution, which requires a quorum of fifty members in the National Assembly and fifteen in the Senate. “We have enough leadership in the House to meet the quorum requirements. We have no fewer than 60 committee leaders, and with broader leadership, over 70,” he noted, emphasizing that attendance should not be a challenge given the House’s leadership numbers.
The National Assembly recently resumed its sittings following a month-long recess, only for Deputy Speaker Gladys Boss to call for the quorum bell when fewer than 50 members were present. This incident highlighted the ongoing issue of attendance, especially from committee leaders expected to lead discussions and address legislative questions.
Ichung’wah underscored the importance of committee leaders’ presence in the House, saying, “If you are a chair or vice-chair of a committee, you must be present in the House at 2:30 PM.” He added, “There is no excuse for the Speaker to be left waiting for quorum, especially when committee leaders are absent, as they are responsible for responding to questions and leading discussions.”
Absenteeism among committee leaders, Ichung’wah pointed out, often leads to unanswered questions directed at Cabinet Secretaries, which in turn disrupts the legislative process. He addressed committee leaders directly, stating, “If you’re a chair or vice-chair, take your role seriously. If not, there are 280 other members ready to take on these responsibilities.”
Referencing earlier remarks by fellow legislator Junet Mohamed, Ichung’wah warned, “This is a season of impeachment. I’m not encouraging impeachment, but those who neglect their duties should face the consequences.”
With only four weeks left before the National Assembly’s long recess, Ichung’wah has called for accountability and emphasized that absenteeism among committee leaders will not be tolerated in the coming sessions.
