A dramatic turn of events has rocked Kenya’s legislative oversight machinery after Bumula MP Jack Wamboka was suspended from chairing the powerful Public Investments Committee (PIC) on Governance and Education, following explosive allegations of bribery and witness intimidation.
The suspension, announced on Wednesday, April 22 by Deputy Speaker Gladys Boss Shollei, comes amid mounting complaints from individuals who appeared before the committee, accusing the legislator of harassment and coercion.
“In order to safeguard public trust… I am persuaded to suspend the honourable Jack Wanami Wamboka from chairing the committee during the period,” Shollei declared on the floor of the House.
The controversy intensified after the National Cohesion and Integration Commission formally wrote to Speaker Moses Wetang’ula, citing what it termed as “hostility, harassment, and degrading treatment” of its officers during committee appearances.
More damning were claims that Wamboka allegedly solicited bribes in exchange for favourable outcomes during proceedings—accusations that have now triggered a formal parliamentary inquiry.
In a move to stabilize the committee’s operations, Shollei directed Minority Leader Junet Mohammed to nominate an interim chairperson by noon on April 23.
The directive follows the ineligibility of Vice Chair Boyd Were, who, having been recently sworn in, does not meet the threshold to assume the role—highlighting the delicate balancing act within Parliament’s leadership structures.
The decision drew support from across the political divide, with Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah praising the move as a “Solomonic decision” aimed at preserving institutional integrity.
While Ichung’wah suggested involving the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission or other investigative bodies, the Deputy Speaker ruled that the matter would instead be handled internally by Parliament’s Powers and Privileges Committee.
“We must deal with our own internal matters internally,” Ichung’wah noted, backing the approach.
Shollei emphasized that the suspension is not a determination of guilt but a procedural safeguard to ensure impartial investigations. The Powers and Privileges Committee has been tasked with tabling its findings within 45 days, during which Wamboka is expected to be accorded a fair hearing.
The unfolding saga places Kenya’s parliamentary oversight functions under intense scrutiny, particularly at a time when accountability and transparency remain central to public discourse.
The developments come just months after heightened national attention during President William Ruto’s State of the Nation address in November 2024—an event that underscored the critical role of Parliament in safeguarding public resources.
As the probe unfolds, all eyes will be on Parliament to demonstrate its commitment to integrity, fairness, and the rule of law.
