ODM party leader and Siaya Senator Oburu Oginga has stepped down as chairperson of the Senate Energy Committee, announcing his resignation during a committee meeting on Tuesday, August 11.

Oburu said his decision was prompted by circumstances beyond his control, but did not give further details.

He, however, made it clear that he had not been removed from the position.

“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.

Oburu will remain a member of the Energy Committee despite giving up the chairmanship.

“This was a peaceful transfer, and whoever you elect will peacefully take over. I thank everyone once again,” he added.

The Siaya Senator was elected to chair the Senate Energy Committee on February 20, 2025, replacing Nyeri Senator Wamatinga Wahome, who had served in the position for about 18 months.

Elgeyo Marakwet Senator William Kisang has since been elected to take over as the new committee chairperson.

Kisang previously served as the vice chair.

Thanking members for trusting him with the position, Kisang acknowledged the responsibility that comes with taking over from Oburu.

“I am taking over from ODM party leader whose shoes are very big. We are going to use your guidance as our patron to ensure our people get electricity,” Kisang stated.

Nominated Senator Beatrice Ogolla was elected as the new vice chairperson, replacing Kisang.

Ogolla thanked ODM leadership and members of the committee for giving her the opportunity to serve in the new position.

“I want to thank the party leader for holding our hands and members of this committee for giving me this chance,” she said.

The Senate Energy Committee handles key issues around Kenya’s energy sector, including electricity access, energy policy, infrastructure and regulatory oversight.