Wetang’ula Announces Vacancy After Hamisi’s Passing

Speaker Confirms Vacancy
National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has officially declared a parliamentary vacancy. Moreover, the announcement followed the death of nominated MP Denar Joseph Hamisi on December 6, 2025, at age 56.

Gazette Notice Issued
In a gazette notice dated January 2, 2026, Wetang’ula confirmed the vacancy. Additionally, he cited Articles 101 (2) (a) and 103 (1) (a) of the Constitution as guiding provisions.

Constitutional Requirements
A parliamentary seat becomes vacant upon death, resignation, or expulsion of a member. Consequently, the Speaker must issue a vacancy notice within 21 days of such an event.

IEBC Role in Replacement
The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) is required to act within 90 days. However, nominated MPs are replaced differently since their seats do not require a by-election.

Party Appointment Process
Under the Elections Act, the political party appoints a replacement. Furthermore, the party selects from its original list submitted to IEBC before the last general election.

Hamisi’s Parliamentary Service
Hamisi was nominated under the Amani National Congress (ANC) party following the 2022 General Election. He served diligently on the Sports and Culture Committee and the National Cohesion and Equal Opportunities Committee.

Tributes from Leaders
Wetang’ula praised Hamisi’s humility and dedication to public service. Moreover, Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi mourned him as a principled and dependable leader who upheld integrity.

Hamisi’s passing leaves a gap in Parliament that will be filled through party nomination. Ultimately, his contributions to national cohesion and culture remain a lasting legacy in Kenya’s political landscape.