Kisumu West MP Rosa Buyu has officially endorsed Suba North MP Millie Odhiambo for the position of Minority Leader in the National Assembly, citing her distinguished contributions and debates in the House.
Buyu’s declaration on Wednesday was supported by a majority of women leaders in Parliament. If appointed, Odhiambo would succeed Ugenya MP Opiyo Wandayi, who has been nominated for the position of Energy and Petroleum Cabinet Secretary.
“As a longstanding member of ODM and Azimio, and a champion of the women’s movement, I am proud to announce Millie Odhiambo as the new Minority Leader,” Buyu affirmed. “Women have shown unwavering loyalty to ODM and Azimio, and it’s time for a woman to lead this party in the House.”
The women legislators echoed their support with unified stomping of feet in agreement.
However, Tiaty MP William Kamket urged MP Buyu to focus on the ongoing motion being debated. Following Buyu’s statement, Odhiambo playfully occupied Wandayi’s seat, prompting brief laughter in Parliament.
Reacting humorously to the situation, Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah remarked that members could sit anywhere in the House.
“We are a bit excited due to the announcement you made, especially since some nominees are current members of this House. It’s premature for us to celebrate as we still have to vet the nominees,” Ichung’wah noted.
“I take this opportunity to congratulate Millie, who has taken over a seat, not just a position. Any member can sit anywhere in this House, by the way.”
Odhiambo emphasized that it’s time for women to take up leadership roles and hold others accountable.
“I have already taken this seat,” she asserted.
On the same day, President William Ruto nominated several opposition members to his cabinet, including Hassan Joho for the Ministry of Mining and Blue Economy, Wycliffe Oparanya for Cooperatives and MSME Development, and John Mbadi for the Ministry of National Treasury. Additionally, he nominated Kipchumba Murkomen for the Ministry of Youth and Sports, Rebecca Miano for Tourism, Justin Muturi for Public Service, Salim Mvurya for Trade, and Alfred Mutua for Labour.
