On Tuesday, a passionate discussion unfolded in the Senate when Kakamega Senator Bonni Khalwale claimed that Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna’s removal from the County Public Accounts Committee (CPAC) stemmed from political motivations. Nominated Senator Karen Nyamu promptly challenged this claim, stating it lacked sufficient evidence.
Khalwale argued that Sifuna faced removal due to his opposition stance and refusal to support the broad-based government, emphasizing that this decision was politically driven.
“If opposing the government is a crime, why is Wambua still in his position, given that he also supports the opposition?” Khalwale asserted.
He firmly stated that Parliament and its committees must function independently, free from external political pressures. “Allow Parliament to operate. Allow committees to fulfill their roles. Let the most qualified among us lead these committees,” he urged.
Nyamu quickly interjected, requesting the Speaker to remind Khalwale to refrain from attributing committee leadership changes to external political influences without evidence. She emphasized that such changes adhere to parliamentary procedures, not external pressures.
Temporary Speaker Catherine Mumma concurred, advising Khalwale to avoid making unfounded allegations.
Despite the ruling, tensions remained high. Khalwale dismissed Nyamu’s interjection as a mere attempt to gain publicity, asserting that the people of Nairobi recognize the contributions he has made to the political landscape.
Nyamu stood again, asserting that Khalwale was misusing his parliamentary privilege to undermine women leaders. “Madam Speaker, Bonni Khalwale is using this platform to insult and intimidate women. It’s unacceptable. He did the same to Senator Tabitha previously; today it’s my turn. He should focus on the issue at hand,” she demanded.
Mumma encouraged Khalwale to avoid disparaging remarks about fellow legislators and to concentrate on the matter before the House.
Khalwale subsequently moderated his comments, clarifying that he did not intend to harm Nyamu’s reputation. “However, she cannot interrupt my thoughts and expect no consequences,” he remarked.
With the dispute settled, senators returned to discussing the day’s agenda, which included the Mining (Amendment) Bill, 2025, sponsored by Nyamu.
Later, Nyamu accused Khalwale of rallying colleagues to oppose her proposed legislation. “Today, Senator Bonni Khalwale has worked to undermine my mining bill. It’s disheartening to see older senators believe they are the only ones capable of presenting progressive legislation,” she said.
The Mining (Amendment) Bill, 2025 aims to revise the Mining Act to empower local communities in mining activities and increase their share of mineral royalties.
Temporary Speaker Mumma instructed Nyamu to either provide evidence for her claims against Khalwale or retract them.
In response, Nyamu asserted she had witnesses present. “I have witnesses in this House, and I challenge Senator Bonni Khalwale to compete with me for the Nairobi Woman Rep position if he wishes,” she stated.
Nyamu emphasized that women legislators deserve the freedom to execute their legislative responsibilities without fear of intimidation. “However, if he chooses to lower the standards, Madam Speaker, we know how to respond accordingly,” she added.
Khalwale did not address Nyamu’s allegations during the debate, and no immediate comment from him was available by the time of publication.
