Kolimba sworn in as EALA member

MARC NKWAME in Arusha

DEPUTY Minister for Foreign Affairs, East African, Regional and International Co-operation, Dr Susan Alphonce Kolimba has just been sworn in as an ex-officio member of the East African Legislative Assembly in Arusha.

The Oath of Allegiance to the Regional Parliament was administered by the Clerk of EALA, before the House Speaker, Mr Daniel Kidega. Dr Kolimba swore in accordance with Rule 5 of the Rules of Procedure of the Assembly.

The Rules of Procedure say in part that: “No Member can sit or participate in the proceedings of the House until the Oath or Affirmation of Allegiance to the Treaty is taken”.

Rule 5(5) specifically states that “when a Member first attends to take his or her seat other than at the first sitting of a new House, he or she shall be brought to the table by two Members and presented by them to the Speaker who shall then administer the Oath or Affirmation of Allegiance”.

The EAC Treaty under Article 48 provides that the Assistant Minister, Deputy Minister of Minister of State may only participate in the meetings of the Assembly when the substantive Minister responsible for East African Community Affairs is unable to participate.

The Deputy Minister was ushered into the House by Angela Kizigha and Shyrose Bhanji. In her maiden speech, Dr Kolimba who immediately assumes the Chair of the EAC Council of Ministers, assured the House that Tanzania is fully committed to the ideals of integration and of her intention to ensure the objectives of the Community are realised.

Dr Kolimba, was appointed Deputy Minister by President John Pombe Magufuli in the cabinet named in December 2015.