By Bonface Mulyungi

President William Ruto has nominated a new chairperson and members to the National Cohesion and Integration Commission, pending approval by the National Assembly.

The Head of Public Service, Felix Koskei, announced on Friday that Ruto had nominated Bishop Kepha Nyamweya Omae as the Commission’s chairperson.

If approved by Parliament, Omae will succeed Rev. Dr Samuel Kobia, who was appointed to the role in 2019.

The proposed members are Ms Josphine Kirion Eragae from Isiolo County, Mr Joseph K. Nguyo (Nyeri), Mr Jackson Swadi Kedogo (Vihiga), Dr Samuel Mwachiro Mwawasi (Taita Taveta), Ms Irene Chepoisho Tulel (West Pokot), Mr Hassan Billow Ahmed (Wajir), and Ms Jerusah Mwaathime Michael (Kitui).

The president noted that all the nominations were made in line with recommendations of a Selection Panel tasked with this, as he urged Parliament to fast-track the approval process, citing the critical role of the Commission.

“These nominations are made in accordance with the recommendations of the Selection Panel appointed to recruit and recommend suitable candidates for appointment to the Commission,” the statement reads.

“In light of the Commission’s consequential mandate to foster national cohesion and unity as well as advance peaceful coexistence by confronting ethnic discrimination and hate speech, the Head of State and Government urges the National Assembly to accord these nominations consideration on a priority basis.”

The nominees now await vetting and approval by the National Assembly before they are appointed by President Ruto.