Opiyo Wandai's plan as new Pac chairman

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Opiyo Wandai says his team will operate above board and be guided by public interest.

Newly elected Public Accounts Committee (Pac) chairman Opiyo Wandai says his team will operate above board and be guided by public interest.

Mr Wandai said the committee will work in a bi-partisan manner and execute its mandate without fear or favour.

“This committee has men and women of unquestionable credibility. We will execute our mandate in a bi-partisan manner and without fear or favour,” he said shortly after being declared chairman of Pac.

Mr Wandai, who garnered 15 out of 18 votes against his closest challenger Sakwa Bunyasi who secured three votes, will chair the powerful watchdog which scrutinises expenditure by the national government.

Otiende Amollo withdrew his candidature.

The Ugunja MP takes over from former Rarieda MP Nicholas Gumbo who lost his bid to be the governor of Siaya in the elections. Kibwezi West MP Jesica Mbalu trounced Busia Women Representative Florence Mutua and Tongaren MP Eseli Simiyu for the vice chairperson’s post. Ms Mbalu got 11 votes, Ms Mutua five, and Eseli two.

“I will not let you down. I served in the 11th Parliament as member of this committee and I know it’s a very important committee for Kenyans. We will work as a committee and will not be divided along political lines. We will ensure that public funds are well utilised,” Ms Mbalu told committee members.