Senate blocks plan to scrap vetting deadlines
The Senate has rejected a legislative proposal that aimed to eliminate the legal requirement for Parliament to vet nominees for public appointments
The Senate has rejected a legislative proposal that aimed to eliminate the legal requirement for Parliament to vet nominees for public appointments within 28 days. Photo/Sanate
By Juliet Jerotich
The Senate has rejected a legislative proposal that aimed to eliminate the legal requirement for Parliament to vet nominees for public appointments within 28 days, citing fears it would weaken oversight and open the door to unvetted appointments.
The decision was announced Thursday by the Senate’s Justice, Legal Affairs, and Human Rights Committee, which is chaired by Vice Chairperson Senator Veronica Maina. Lawmakers ruled that lifting the timeline for vetting would undermine the Constitution’s intent for timely and accountable public service appointments.
The bill sought to amend current statutes by repealing provisions that establish the 28-day vetting limit, including the deemed approval clause—where a nominee is considered approved if no decision is made within the deadline. It also proposed to remove the National Assembly’s authority to extend the vetting timeline when needed.
Senator Tom Ojienda led the opposition to the proposal, arguing that such a framework may work in more politically accountable systems like the United States or South Africa but would be risky in Kenya’s context.
“We are not yet mature enough politically to do away with these checks,” Ojienda said. “This could allow politically connected individuals to bypass scrutiny depending on their affiliations.”
Senator Dan Maanzo agreed, labeling the proposed changes as deceptive and potentially dangerous. “The idea is misleading and intended to allow some nominees to dodge vetting. Every critical institution, including the Supreme Court, operates under timelines. There must be consequences for inaction,” he said.
Maina also dismissed the idea, asserting that the Constitution contains multiple provisions anchored on time-bound procedures. “Timelines ensure accountability. Eliminating them would disrupt constitutional safeguards,” she said.
Following comprehensive deliberations, the committee resolved to formally reject the proposal and will submit its official response to the Senate Speaker by July 31, 2025, in accordance with Standing Order 130.
The rejection signals Parliament’s commitment to maintaining structured oversight over appointments to public office and ensuring that all nominees face proper scrutiny before assuming duties.
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