Former Wajir Woman Representative Fatuma Ibrahim Ali sworn in/HANDOUT
Former Wajir Woman Representative Fatuma Ibrahim Ali has joined the Parliamentary Service Commission, promising to build consensus and promote teamwork during her tenure.
Ali was sworn in on Thursday as the new female non-Member Commissioner of the PSC, replacing Rachel Ameso, whose term expired.
She takes up the position after emerging as the top candidate in a competitive recruitment process that attracted 75 eligible applicants.
Twelve candidates were shortlisted and interviewed before Ali emerged as the highest-ranked candidate.
She was assessed on her academic and professional qualifications, experience in public affairs, understanding of Parliament and the PSC, leadership and management skills, as well as the Chapter Six requirements on leadership and integrity.
The Senate approved her appointment on October 1 before the National Assembly endorsed her nomination on Wednesday.
Speaking after taking the oath at County Hall, Parliament Buildings, Ali said consensus would guide her work at the commission.
“I am a person who believes in consensus in commissions. Consensus is very crucial in decision-making, and I am committed to working on consensus at all times,” she said.
She said consensus would help the commission remain united and focused on its constitutional mandate while protecting the interests of Parliament.
Ali thanked Parliament, the PSC leadership, her political party and those who supported her appointment.
She also recalled her previous working relationship with National Assembly Speaker and PSC chairman Moses Wetang’ula, saying they had worked together during her time in Parliament and her bid for the East African Legislative Assembly.
Ali served as Wajir Woman Representative in the 11th Parliament before joining the EALA.
Welcoming her to the commission, Wetang’ula said her experience in Parliament and public service would strengthen the PSC.
“You have been in this Parliament with us. You have a rich history behind you and I have no doubt whatsoever that you will add value to this Commission,” Wetang’ula said.
The Speaker challenged Ali to put the interests of Parliament, MPs, staff and the institution of democracy above personal, sectarian or regional interests.
Wetang’ula said consensus was already the preferred method of decision-making in the commission.
“We have never voted on any issue, and we are unlikely to vote on any issue. If we don't agree, we sleep over it and come the next day,” he said.
He said consensus helped commissioners remain united and avoid divisions that could arise from voting.
Wetang’ula also praised Ameso for her contribution and urged Ali to build on her predecessor’s work.
PSC Commissioner Johnson Muthama said Ali was joining a commission with a heavy workload and assured her of the support of her colleagues.
“We are non-elected commissioners, so a lot is expected from us. One thing I can assure you is that the commissioners have great support and the leadership of the chairman,” Muthama said.
Likoni MP Mishi Mboko, who said she had known Ali for more than 20 years, also welcomed her to the commission.
Mboko said Ali had demonstrated experience and integrity during her years in public service.
“She is a team player, so it will not be difficult for her to be in the spirit which we have here in this Commission,” she said.
Nyeri Senator Wahome Wamatinga said Ali’s experience in public affairs would be useful in the committees she would serve in.
He encouraged her to share her experience with colleagues as Parliament prepares for the next General Election.
Nyamira Senator Okong’o Omogeni, who represented the PSC during the approval process, congratulated Ali and said her performance in the recruitment process reflected her experience in public affairs.
PSC Vice-Chairperson and Nominated Senator Joyce Korir also congratulated Ali, urging her to serve with wisdom, integrity and courage.
The PSC is established under Article 127 of the Constitution and is responsible for providing services and facilities necessary for the effective functioning of Parliament.
It also oversees the Parliamentary Service, appoints and supervises staffers.
