Governor Mutai defends himself before Senate as impeachment hearing begins

Kericho Governor Eric Mutai. [Kipsang Joseph, Standard]

Kericho Governor Eric Mutai has appeared before the Senate to defend himself against charges leveled against him by the County Assembly.

The Governor has pleaded not guilty to all the charges as his impeachment hearing starts in the Senate.

This comes days after Kericho County Assembly resolved to impeach Governor Mutai for violation of the constitution among other charges.

The county boss appeared before the Senate, asking the House not to have the hearings as had been earlier communicated by Senate Speaker Amason Kingi until a pending court case is determined.

However, this was dismissed.

Through his lawyer Senior Counsel Katwa Kigen, Mutai has argued that the County Assembly's decision to impeach him is unlawful since it went against a court decision.

Making reference to earlier recordings from the Assembly, Mutai's defence has also argued that the impeachment did not meet the threshold as per the county laws.

About a fortnight ago, the county boss was impeached after 31 out of the 47 Members of the County Assembly (MCAs) voted in support of the motion tabled by Sigowet MCA James Rogony.

Sixteen other members boycotted the vote, raising questions on the impeachment threshold.

The Assembly is accusing the governor of gross violation of the Constitution, abuse of office and gross misconduct.

In pursuit of survival, Governor Mutai obtained court orders that barred the lower house from debating the motion until the petition is heard and determined.

The court hearing was set for October 15, 2024.