Parliament bids farewell to Director Atenyo Abonyo after 34 years of service

Thursday, February 19th 2026

Parliament Fraternity yesterday celebrated the remarkable career of Director Atenyo Abonyo, who retires after 34 years of distinguished service to Parliament, marking the end of an era defined by professionalism, integrity, and unwavering commitment to public service.
Colleagues described her departure as the closing of a significant chapter in the institution’s history. For over three decades, Director Abonyo has been a pillar of diligence and institutional memory, playing a critical role in strengthening parliamentary processes and ensuring accountability within the service.
Until her retirement, she served in the Directorate of Audit and the Appropriations Committees, where her expertise significantly enhanced parliamentary oversight. Through her leadership in watchdog committees, she contributed to reinforcing Parliament’s watchdog role over public finances. Her steady hand and deep understanding of procedures and processes could never be ignored.
Speakers at the farewell ceremony praised her resilience and hard work, noting that her contributions went beyond technical competence. Former Director of the Parliamentary Budget Office, Phyllis Makau, remembered her as motherly, kind, and deeply concerned about the welfare of officers under her leadership. 
“She worked with resilience and hard work. She was cautious about welfare matters and always ensured her officers were supported even in matters of training and capacity building,” Makau said.
Deputy Clerk of the Senate, Mr. Mohamed Ali, commended Director Abonyo for her thoroughness and dedication in discharging her duties. He noted that her attention to detail and commitment to excellence set a high standard for others within the parliamentary service.
Clerk Samuel Njoroge underscored her lasting legacy in mentorship and capacity building. “You have trained many officers to take up the mantle from where you have left. There are many officers who can now keep the institution running even after your exit because you generously trained them on how to do it. We thank you,” he said.
Indeed, beyond her official responsibilities, Director Abonyo will be remembered for shaping the next generation of parliamentary professionals. Many officers who served under her rose through the ranks under her guidance, benefiting from her patient mentorship and wealth of experience.
As she embarks on a new chapter of life, the National Assembly expressed gratitude for her exemplary service and wished her a fulfilling and well-deserved retirement. Her 34 years of unwavering commitment have left an indelible mark on the institution, ensuring that her legacy of integrity, diligence, and mentorship will endure for years to come.