The Senate is set for a crucial and busy week, with back-to-back hearings that could determine the political futures of two high-profile leaders: Kericho Governor Erick Kipkoech Mutai and Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
The proceedings begin today, October 14, 2024, as the Senate launches a two-day hearing on the impeachment motion against Governor Mutai following his ousting by the Kericho County Assembly.
The session kicks off at 9:00 a.m. with a closed pre-hearing meeting for Senators, followed by the presentation of charges and opening statements from both sides.
Mutai faces serious accusations, including gross violation of the Constitution, mismanagement of county revenue, failure to automate revenue collection systems, and financial misappropriation.
Additional charges include an extravagant lifestyle, procurement irregularities, and abuse of office through illegal appointments and directives that allegedly undermined the County Assembly’s oversight role.
The County Assembly is expected to provide detailed evidence of financial losses, tender manipulation, and improper administrative actions as they seek to solidify the case for Mutai’s removal from office.
Meanwhile, the fate of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua hangs in the balance as his own impeachment process is set to follow shortly after Mutai’s, with hearings scheduled for October 16-17, 2024.
Gachagua will face 11 charges, including allegations of gross misconduct and constitutional violations.
If the Senate, with a minimum of 45 senators supporting the motion, votes in favor of impeachment, Gachagua may be forced to explore legal options for recourse, relying on his team of experienced lawyers to defend him.
The outcomes of these hearings could reshape the political landscape, as both cases involve key figures in President William Ruto’s administration.
The Senate’s decisions in the coming days will be closely watched, not only for their immediate political impact but also for the long-term implications on governance and accountability in Kenya.
Related: 5 Things That Will Now Happen After The National Assembly Successfully Impeached Gachagua
