MPs to vet candidates for East African parliament

National Assembly Speaker Justin Muturi. (Photo: Joseph Muchiri, Standard)

The vetting of candidates for the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) will take place next week.

The two-day process will be conducted by a joint committee co-chaired by Senate Deputy Majority Leader Kipchumba Murkomen (Elgeyo/Marakwet) and National Assembly Whip Katoo ole Metito (Kajiado South).

National Assembly Speaker Justin Muturi directed that applicants' names and accompanying documents be submitted to the leaders of the Majority and the Minority in both houses.

Muturi said in a statement that party leaders are expected to submit the nomination papers of their candidates. Independent candidates are also required to submit their papers today.

"Considering the strict timelines, the matter should be expedited," said Muturi.

The term of the current regional assembly that is based in Arusha, Tanzania, expires in three weeks. Kenya has nine slots in EALA.

The National Assembly has picked Wafula Wamunyinyi (Kanduyi), Florence Mutua (Busia County MP), Katoo, Samuel Chepkonga (Ainabkoi), and Dan Maanzo (Makueni) to lead the vetting. The Senate has picked Murkomen, Mutula Kilonzo Jnr (Makueni), Kimani Wamatangi (Kiambu), Henry ole Ndiema (Trans Nzoia), Mshenga Mvita (nominated), and Peter Mositet (Kajiado) to vet the applicants.

There have been growing concerns that the regional assembly is being turned into a 'dumping ground' for election losers and retirees.