Nairobi, Kenya| In a significant leadership transition, Senator Fatuma Dullo (Isiolo) and Professor Tom Ojienda, SC (Kisumu), have been unanimously elected as the Chairperson and Vice Chairperson, respectively, of the Senate Standing Committee on National Security, Defence, and Foreign Relations.
Their unopposed election marks the beginning of their stewardship over the influential nine-member committee, which is tasked with overseeing crucial national matters, including security policies, defence strategies, and Kenya’s foreign relations.
New Leadership Takes Charge
Upon her election, Senator Dullo expressed deep gratitude to her colleagues for their trust and support.
She reaffirmed her dedication to strengthening the committee’s role, ensuring that it effectively discharges its mandate.
“We have had challenges in the past, but going forward, we shall address various issues touching on foreign relations, insecurity, and cattle rustling, among others,” Senator Dullo stated.
She called on fellow committee members to be fully committed to their duties, emphasizing the importance of teamwork and a collective approach to resolving pressing national concerns.
Her sentiments were echoed by Professor Ojienda, who underscored the necessity of unity in fulfilling the committee’s responsibilities.
He pledged to work closely with Senator Dullo and the entire committee to ensure their work has tangible impacts on national security, defence, and foreign relations.
Senators Urge Action on Security and Foreign Policy
Senator Edwin Sifuna (Nairobi), who also spoke after the election, voiced his strong commitment to the committee’s work.
He urged his colleagues to adopt a proactive approach in tackling critical security challenges, particularly the growing concerns over abductions and insecurity.
“As a committee, we should dig deeper into various issues under our watch, including abductions and insecurity. We should also scrutinize Kenya’s foreign relations to ensure the country gets it right,” Senator Sifuna remarked.
His remarks underscored the committee’s role in shaping Kenya’s engagement with the international community while addressing pressing internal security concerns.
Composition of the National Security, Defence, and Foreign Relations Committee
The committee, which plays a pivotal role in shaping security and foreign policy, consists of the following senators:
- Chairperson: Fatuma Dullo (Isiolo)
- Vice-Chairperson: Prof. Tom Ojienda, SC (Kisumu)
- Members:
- Dr. Lelegwe Ltumbesi (Samburu)
- Julius Murgor (West Pokot)
- Tabitha Keroche (Nakuru)
- Joseph Githuku (Lamu)
- Edwin Sifuna (Nairobi)
- Abdul Haji (Garissa)
- Okong’o Mogeni, SC (Nyamira)
A Strategic Committee for National Interests
The National Security, Defence, and Foreign Relations Committee holds significant influence in shaping Kenya’s internal and external security policies.
With threats such as cross-border insecurity, terrorism, and evolving diplomatic challenges, the committee’s role remains vital in ensuring national stability and strategic global positioning.
With the election of Senator Dullo and Professor Ojienda, expectations are high that the committee will chart a new course in addressing security concerns and refining Kenya’s foreign policy.
As the new leadership settles into their roles, the focus will now be on translating their commitments into tangible policy recommendations and legislative oversight that enhance Kenya’s security and global standing.
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