Siaya Senator Oburu Oginga has stepped down as chairman of the Senate Energy Committee, paving the way for a new leadership team after announcing his resignation during the panel’s meeting on Tuesday.
Oburu told members on Tuesday that his decision to leave the chairmanship was not the result of being removed, saying the circumstances behind his departure were beyond his control.
"The reasons (why I am vacating) are beyond my own self control. I have resigned. Nobody should say that I have been removed," Oburu said.
He also moved to reassure members that the change in leadership was orderly and did not amount to a political takeover or dispute within the committee.
"There is no coup here. There is only a peaceful transfer and whoevet you elect will peacefully take over. I thank everyone once again" he added.
Following his resignation, Kisang, who had been serving as the committee’s vice chairperson, was elected the new chairperson. He thanked members for placing their confidence in him and acknowledged the task of taking over from Oburu.
“I want to take this opportunity to thank members of this committee for having confidence in me and electing me as the chair. I am taking over from the ODM party leader whose shoes are very big. We are going to use your guidance as our patron to ensure our people get power (electricity),” Kisang said.
Nominated Senator Beatrice Ogolla was subsequently elected as the committee’s new vice chairperson, replacing Kisang.
Ogolla thanked Oburu and the ODM party for giving her the opportunity to take up the leadership position.
“I want to thank the party leader for holding our hands. Also want to thank members of this committee for giving me this chance,” she said.
Oburu will, however, remain a member of the Energy Committee despite relinquishing the chairmanship.
His decision to leave the leadership position comes ahead of the 2027 General Election, allowing him to shift more attention to ODM affairs while continuing to serve on the committee.
The changes now place Kisang at the helm of the Energy Committee, with Ogolla serving as his deputy as the panel begins a new phase of leadership.