Seme MP James Nyika has been elected unopposed as the new Chairperson of the National Assembly’s Departmental Committee on Health./HANDOUT
Seme MP James Nyika has been elected unopposed as the new Chairperson of the National Assembly’s Departmental Committee on Health.
He takes over from Endebess MP Robert Pukose, who remains a member of the committee while also assuming the role of Vice Chairperson in the Budget and Appropriations Committee. Pukose will deputise his Alego Usonga counterpart Samuel Atandi, who was elected Chairperson of BAC, replacing Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro.
Meanwhile, Chuka/Igambang'ombe MP Patrick Munene Ntwiga, retained his position as Vice Chairperson of the Health Committee.
In his acceptance speech, Dr Nyikal expressed gratitude to committee members for their confidence in his leadership, acknowledging the critical role the committee plays in shaping Kenya’s health sector, which he said needs urgent intervention.
“I want to thank you all for electing me unopposed—it signifies the trust you have in me. I do not take this responsibility lightly, as I recognise the health sector’s vital role in the well-being of our nation,” he said.
Dr Nyikal also stressed the keen public interest in the leadership of the committee, stating that many Kenyans had reached out to him in anticipation of the election outcome.
“I was overwhelmed by the numerous letters, phone calls, and emails from people across the country eagerly awaiting the results. It shows that Kenyans have high expectations of this committee, and with the current political arrangement, we have a great opportunity to deliver,” he noted.
He further appreciated his predecessor, Dr Pukose, for his dedication and expressed confidence that his continued presence in the committee would be invaluable.
“I want to thank Dr Pukose for a job well done. I am grateful that he remains part of this committee, as his experience and counsel will be beneficial to all of us. Additionally, his new role in the Budget Committee will strengthen our efforts in securing financial support for health sector programmes,” he said.
Vice Chairperson Patrick Munene underscored the urgent issues facing the health sector, including the withdrawal of donor funding, drug shortages, and the implementation of the government’s Taifa Care program under the Social Health Authority (SHA).
“We have seen donor funding cuts affecting critical programs, particularly in malaria, HIV, and TB. This is an issue we must address urgently. As a committee, we need to collaborate closely with the Ministry of Health to find sustainable solutions,” he said.
He emphasized the need for swift action, warning that failure to address these challenges could lead to a crisis in the health sector.
“As a committee, we must settle down quickly and strategise on how to work with the government and relevant stakeholders. If we don’t, the health sector could face major disruptions,” he cautioned.
Munene also commended the outgoing Chair, Dr Pukose, for his leadership during a period of significant changes in the health sector.
“Dr Pukose took charge at a time when many reforms were needed. Under his leadership, we achieved a lot. I also appreciate the UDA party for retaining him in the committee because his institutional memory will be crucial in guiding us forward,” he added.
In his remarks, Dr Pukose pledged to continue contributing to the committee’s work, despite stepping down as Chair.
“Being chair is not easy—you have to accommodate everyone’s views. Every member here is qualified to be Chair or Vice Chair, so it’s important that we work as a team, beyond party lines, to fulfill our mandate,” he said.
