He explained that, according to Article 149 of the Constitution, the National Assembly is required to vote on the nomination, treating it as an election rather than a standard appointment.
Wetangula noted that in cases like the election of the Speaker or Deputy Speaker, public involvement is not part of the process, and this same approach applies to Kindiki’s nomination.
The clarification came after Navakholo Member of Parliament Emmanuel Wangwe asked for guidance on whether Parliament should follow the vetting and approval process as outlined in the Public Appointments and Parliamentary Approval Act.
Wangwe pointed out that Article 124 of the Constitution requires certain appointments to be reviewed by a committee before the National Assembly can approve them.
However, Wetangula reiterated that because this process was considered an election, the usual vetting and public participation steps were not necessary.
Furthermore, the Speaker emphasized that there would be no debate before voting on Kindiki’s nomination.
He explained that the procedure for the election of the Deputy President is straightforward and does not involve discussions, only voting.
Wetangula also responded to a question from Endebess MP Robert Pukose, who inquired about the voting threshold needed to approve the Deputy President's nomination.
Wetangula clarified that under Article 122, a simple majority of the members present is enough to make the decision.
The nomination of Kithure Kindiki came after the Senate passed a resolution to impeach Rigathi Gachagua, who faced five out of eleven allegations against him.
However, Kindiki’s confirmation as the new Deputy President faces legal challenges. The High Court in Nairobi issued orders preventing Gachagua’s replacement, with Justice Chacha Mwita highlighting the constitutional importance of the case.
Additionally, the High Court in Kerugoya issued separate orders stopping Kindiki from taking office.
Despite these setbacks, Kindiki's nomination has already been approved by Parliament.
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