Former Wajir County Woman Representative Fatuma Ibrahim Ali has been sworn in as the newest female non-Member Commissioner of the Parliamentary Service Commission (PSC), pledging to promote consensus, integrity and teamwork in the running of Parliament.
Fatuma took the oath of office on Thursday, October 8, 2026, at County Hall, Parliament Buildings, following her approval by both Houses of Parliament. She replaces former PSC Commissioner Rachel Ameso, whose term in office came to an end.
Her appointment followed a competitive recruitment process conducted by the PSC. Fatuma was among 12 candidates shortlisted and interviewed on September 10, 2026. She emerged as the highest-ranked candidate after being assessed on her academic qualifications, experience in public affairs, understanding of the mandate of Parliament and the PSC, leadership and management skills, as well as compliance with the leadership and integrity requirements under Chapter Six of the Constitution.
The Senate approved her appointment on October 1, while the National Assembly endorsed her nomination on October 7.
Speaking after taking the oath, Fatuma said she was honoured by the opportunity and committed to working with other commissioners to protect and advance the mandate of the PSC.
She placed consensus at the centre of her approach to decision-making, saying it was important for maintaining unity within the Commission.
“I am a person who believes in consensus in commissions. Consensus is very crucial in decision-making, and I am committed to working on consensus at all times,” she said.
Fatuma thanked Parliament, the PSC leadership, her political party and other people who supported her appointment.
She also reflected on her previous working relationship with National Assembly Speaker and PSC Chairman Moses Wetang’ula. She noted that they had worked together during her time in Parliament and during her bid for a seat in the East African Legislative Assembly.
Fatuma served as the Wajir County Woman Representative during the 11th Parliament.
Welcoming Fatuma to the Commission, Wetang’ula said her experience in public service would be valuable to the PSC and Parliament.
He said she was joining the Commission at a time when it was working to strengthen Parliament, uphold integrity and improve public understanding of the institution.
“You have been in this Parliament with us. You have a rich history behind you and I have no doubt whatsoever that you will add value to this Commission,” Wetang’ula said.
The Speaker urged the new commissioner to work as part of a team and place the interests of Parliament, its members, staff and the institution of democracy above personal, regional or sectarian interests.
Wetang’ula also praised Ameso for her contribution during her tenure, saying she had left an “indelible mark” at the Commission.
He said consensus had become the preferred approach to decision-making within the PSC, noting that commissioners had not resorted to voting when handling issues.
“We have never voted on any issue, and we are unlikely to vote on any issue. If we don’t agree, we sleep over it and come the next day,” he said.
According to Wetang’ula, consensus allows commissioners to remain united and prevents divisions that may arise when decisions are made through voting.
Other leaders who welcomed Fatuma to the PSC included Nyandarua Woman Representative Faith Gitau, PSC Commissioner Johnson Muthama, Mavoko MP Patrick Makau, Likoni MP Mishi Mboko, Nyeri Senator Wahome Wamatinga, Nyamira Senator Okong’o Omogeni and PSC Vice-Chairperson Joyce Korir.
They described Fatuma as an experienced public servant and team player whose previous work in Parliament and public affairs would benefit the Commission.
Muthama noted that the PSC had a demanding workload but assured Fatuma of the support of the other commissioners and its leadership.
The Parliamentary Service Commission is established under Article 127 of the Constitution. Its responsibilities include providing services and facilities necessary for the efficient and effective functioning of Parliament.
The Commission also oversees offices within the Parliamentary Service, appoints and supervises office holders, prepares annual expenditure estimates and exercises budgetary control over the Parliamentary Service.
It is further mandated to undertake programmes that promote the ideals of parliamentary democracy and provide for the welfare of Members of Parliament and parliamentary staff.
Wetang’ula urged Fatuma to use her experience to strengthen the Commission as Parliament continues to discharge its constitutional responsibilities of representation, legislation and oversight.
He also called on commissioners to maintain public engagement through outreach programmes so that Kenyans can better understand the role of Parliament.
The Speaker said the Commission would continue working to strengthen Parliament and build public confidence in the institution.
