Nyeri Town MP Duncan Mathenge has been elected unopposed as the Vice-Chairperson of the National Assembly Committee on Cohesion and Equal Opportunities.

The election, held on Tuesday, August 5, 2025, at Parliament Buildings in Nairobi, was presided over by Lucy Kimathi, Head of the General Purposes Department.

Mathenge was the sole nominee and now replaces the late Kasipul MP Charles Ong’ondo Were, who was fatally shot near the City Mortuary roundabout in April.

“Hon. Mathenge is the only candidate who returned his papers for the position. I therefore declare him duly elected,” Kimathi announced, confirming adherence to parliamentary procedures.

Leadership backed by experience

In his acceptance remarks, Mathenge thanked committee members for the confidence placed in him and pledged to uphold the values of the committee. “I take this responsibility seriously and will rely on your continued support as I discharge my duties,” read part of the statement.

Committee Chairperson and Mandera West MP Adan Yussuf Haji lauded Mathenge’s appointment, describing him as a dedicated member who had consistently contributed to the committee’s work. “He is not new to this committee. We are confident he will meet, if not exceed, expectations,” said Haji.

Other members echoed similar sentiments, with Nakuru County MP Liza Chelule praising the unity displayed during the election. “Members agreed there was no need for a contest. Settling on Hon. Mathenge was a collective decision,” she noted.

Honoring the late Were

Baringo South MP Charles Kamuren paid tribute to the late Ong’ondo Were and proposed that the committee plan a visit to his family in Nyanza during future field activities. “Today’s election brings back fresh memories of Hon. Were’s untimely death. Honouring his legacy would be fitting,” he said.

Additional messages of support came from MPs Joshua Oron, Dick Maungu, Agnes Pareyio, and Oku Kaunya, all expressing optimism in Mathenge’s leadership.

The Committee on Cohesion and Equal Opportunities plays a critical oversight role in promoting national unity, equitable representation, and inclusivity in public service. With Mathenge stepping into this new role, members expressed hope for renewed energy in advancing the committee’s agenda during a time when the country continues to face pressing social integration challenges.