Wamuzi News Ke
In a sweeping reallocation of parliamentary seats, the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has confirmed Harold Kimuge Kipchumba as the new nominated Member of Parliament, replacing Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi.
The move is part of a broader exercise to fill vacant special seats across both the National and County Assemblies following resignations and deaths, ensuring continued representation of marginalised groups in line with established party lists.
Under ODM’s party list category for persons with disabilities, Kipchumba steps in immediately into the National Assembly, as detailed in a gazette notice issued on July 24, 2025. At the same time, nine additional special seats were reassigned across county assemblies including Garissa, Murang’a, Kiambu, Taita Taveta, Makueni, Nyandarua, Kirinyaga, and Kakamega.
Replacements span interest groups—from youth and PWD representatives to gender top-ups—based on priority and original party submissions.
Key Reactions and Fallout.
The reallocation has already sparked controversy within ODM’s internal corridors. Saboti MP Caleb Amisi publicly questioned the replacement decision, arguing that John Ketora, the ODM Youth League president from Kajiado, had been endorsed to fill Mbadi’s seat under the workers’ nomination category.
In turn, IEBC’s confirmation of Kipchumba—under a different representation category—has drawn criticism for allegedly bypassing that internal selection. Despite the brewing tensions, IEBC reaffirmed its commitment to fairness, inclusivity, and transparency, insisting that all reallocations adhered strictly to the established order of party lists submitted during the 2022 general elections.
Why This Matters.
Political Realignment: The shift positions Harold Kimuge Kipchumba into national legislative power—potentially shaping ODI’s internal dynamics and power base ahead of 2027.
Representation Integrity: The nominations underscore Kenya’s complex quota system, raising questions on party list vetting and the coherence of succession planning within political parties.
Legal Precedent: IEBC’s action under Article 90 of the Constitution and the Elections Act affirms the role of national commissions in maintaining constitutional representation—even amid resignations and internal disputes.
As Kipchumba is formally sworn in, expectations are set: deliver on constituents’ concerns and assert visibility in national debates—especially given his disability advocacy mandate. Whether this brings stability or further infighting within ODM remains to be seen.
What Happens Next?.
Party officials are now being urged to clarify nomination procedures and address internal disquiet over selection processes. Meanwhile, civil society observers are watching closely—seeking assurance that special seats serve public interest rather than party politicking.
This development marks one of the most significant parliamentary adjustments since the 2022 polls and underscores Kenya’s ongoing efforts to sustain inclusive democratic governance.
