Kapseret MP Oscar Sudi has defended Tourism Cabinet Secretary nominee Peninah Malonza from the rejection she received from the parliamentary committee on appointments.
The committee unanimously agreed to reject Malonza's appointment on grounds that she failed to articulate how she will manage the ministry and turn around the dwindling fortunes of the sector.
In a statement, however, Sudi said Malonza deserves a chance to serve as Cabinet secretary.
He said the nominee could have failed because it is difficult to face parliamentarians in the full glare of cameras.
The MP said the nominee could have panicked hence the need to be pardoned.
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"Penina Malonza is qualified to serve the Tourism docket only that she wasn't good in public speaking. It's not an easy task to address parliamentarians with the full glare of cameras, maybe she panicked or got nervous. Nonetheless, she will be the best-performing Cabinet Secretary. Let's give her a chance," Sudi wrote on Facebook.
While presenting the report on their vetting, Majority leader Kimani Ichung'wa said Malonza failed to demonstrate her suitability for the role.
"Honorable Speaker, the Committee in considering this particular nominee... we do state that the nominee did not demonstrate knowledge of topical administrative and technical issues touching on the Ministry of Tourism and Heritage," he said.
Ichung'wa added:
"Consequently, the nominee lacks requisite ability and experience to serve as a Cabinet Secretary for Tourism, Wildlife and Heritage."
Malonza appeared before the MPs for vetting on Wednesday, October 16.
