Laikipia Senator John Kinyua has resigned as Parliamentary Service Commission commissioner as the apparent purge on former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua's allies kicks off.
The ruling party, UDA, has picked Nyeri Senator Wahome Wamatinga to replace Kinyua.
A Supplementary Order Paper of the Senate for November 19, 2024, has lined up a Motion on the appointment of a Member of Parliament to Parliamentary Service Commission.
“That, pursuant to the provisions of Article 127(2)(c)(i) of the Constitution, the Senate approves the nomination of Senator Wahome Wamatinga, MP, for appointment to the Parliamentary Service Commission to fill the vacancy occasion by the resignation of Senator John Nderitu Kinyua,” the Supplementary Order Paper read.
The Kenya Kwanza leadership is reportedly targeting Gachagua’s sympathisers in the impending purge that could trigger further discord in the ruling coalition.
The axe is targeting Gachagua’s allies in the Senate and the National Assembly.
Those targeted voted in favour of Gachagua in the impeachment motion.
Those facing the axe include senators Thang’wa, John Methu (Nyandarua), James Murango (Kirinyaga), Kanar Seki (Kajiado) and Joe Nyutu (Murang’a).
Thang’wa chairs the Senate roads, transportation and housing committee, Methu is the chairman of the lands, water and natural resources team, while Murango is in charge of the agriculture committee.
Seki chairs the trade and industrialisation committee while Nyutu chairs the education committee.
Last month, Thang’wa confirmed the plot to oust them.
“We have been threatened and told that we are going to be removed from chairmanship. Bring it on. I was elected by the people of Kiambu. They never knew there were chairs inside Parliament,” Thang’wa said.
He said some of them have been targeted for their firm position against some government policies, including leasing out state properties.
“My committee, which is roads, transportation and housing, right now is discussing the issue of Adani. It is my committee that is supposed to come up with the recommendations and the report,” Thang’wa said.
“So, if they are to remove us for standing with justice, it is okay. It is fine. So long I belong, I stay and remain as the senator of Kiambu.”
