MPs press KNCHR and ORPP nominees on accountability and compliance

National Assembly’s Justice and Legal Affairs Committee (JLAC) on Thursday examined three nominees for leadership positions at the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) and the Office of the Registrar of Political Parties (ORPP).

Chaired by Tharaka MP George Murugara, the session focused on assessing the nominees’ ability to enforce regulations, safeguard rights, and promote institutional accountability.

Claris Awuor Ogangah, nominated as Chairperson of the KNCHR, faced detailed questioning on her strategy for strengthening partnerships with institutions that protect human rights.

 Lawmakers probed how she would prevent overlap in responsibilities, navigate conflicts between government policies and constitutional guarantees, and set a clear vision for the Commission’s future.

Members pressed Ogangah on addressing ongoing human rights issues, including gender-based violence, femicide, inequality, extrajudicial killings, and threats to civil freedoms. They also urged her to encourage youth participation in human rights advocacy.

“For human rights for all to be effective you must be prepared to ruffle feathers and challenge the status quo. How prepared are you to confront the powers that be for KNCHR to be effective?” asked Rarieda MP Otiende Amollo.

Ogangah responded that she would lead with courage, speak openly on difficult issues, and use dialogue and partnerships to strengthen human rights across all sectors.

“Human rights is not an abstract issue that simply focuses on civil rights only. For it to be effective there is need for involvement of human rights in the development agenda of the country,” she said.

The Committee later vetted John Cox Lorionokou for the role of Registrar of Political Parties.

MPs examined how he would enforce the Political Parties Act, ensure timely reporting by parties, and prevent the rise of “briefcase parties” that appear only during elections, a concern highlighted by Kanduyi MP John Makali.

Lorionokou was also asked about managing the Political Parties Fund, with lawmakers emphasizing the need for transparent distribution and measures to prevent irregularities in nominations and candidate selection.

They underlined the importance of strengthening the legal framework and oversight mechanisms for political parties.

Agatha Wanjiku Wahome, nominated as Assistant Registrar of Political Parties, was questioned on her role in promoting compliance, ensuring fair party operations, and supporting regulatory oversight.

Her answers focused on enhancing integrity, fairness, and transparency in party management.

The Committee will now compile its findings and present a report to the National Assembly for further consideration and approval.