Tourism Cabinet Secretary appointee, Penina Malonza vowed to prove Kenyans wrong moments after surviving parliamentary vetting by a whisker.
Speaking to the press on Wednesday, October 26, Malonza promised to dwarf her predecessors in reviving the sector despite facing grave criticism regarding her suitability as Cabinet Secretary.
The former Kitui Deputy Governor, assured the country that she was ready for the task ahead.
"Kenyans will now see the lioness in me through unmatched performance in my docket,” she told Nation.
Recounting the vetting process, the CS appointee pointed out that she was in a tense state while in the hot seat.
Describing the moment as 'real baptism by fire', Malonza wondered how she experienced anxiety while responding to some of the concerns posed by the vetting committee.
"That was unlike me. Those I have worked with know that I’m always confident when speaking before cameras, having served as Deputy Governor and ran for elective politics three times.
“I may have lost my composure and confidence at the hot seat but that doesn't, in any way, reflect my solid competencies. I want to assure Kenyans that I will not let down my beloved country Kenya in my role as Tourism CS," she added.
Malonza expressed confidence in President William Ruto's nod of approval in appointing her to the docket and noted that her extensive experience would come in handy.
The CS appointee also lauded the National Assembly for overturning the committee's recommendations in dropping her from the approval list.
During the vetting process, Malonza was put to task by the MPs to explain certain facts that she misquoted during the interview.
After various corrections by the lawmakers, National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula also advised the CS appointee to avoid misquoting figures and statements.
"Penina, you know, in an interview, even a no is an answer, you do not have to make guesses.
"No one knows everything, it is how you will engage in office if we approve you. You can say you will formulate policies, and legislation and find out. All those responses are good answers," Wetangula advised.
