Man petitions MPs to institute Matemu, Keino removal

A private citizen has petitioned the National Assembly to initiate the process for the removal of Ethics and Anti Corruption Commission (EACC) Chairman Mumo Matemu and Commissioner Irene Keino.

Oriaro Geoffrey accused the two of serious violations of the Constitution, Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission Act, Economic Crimes Act and the Penal Code.

In a petition that was yesterday committed to the Justice and Legal Affairs Committee by House Speaker Justin Muturi for scrutiny, Mr Oriaro further accused the duo of gross misconduct and incompetence in the management of EACC.

"The work of the committee is to guide the House by way of a report on whether the petition satisfies the grounds for removal of a member of a constitutional commission," said Mr Muturi.

Oriaro wants the National Assembly to recommend to President Uhuru Kenyatta the appointment of a tribunal to investigate the two in accordance with Article 251(4) of the Constitution, which deals with the removal from office of members of independent constitutional commissions.

Muturi directed that the committee handles the matter within 14 days and submit a report to the House.

"Once the committee tables the report, the House will have 10 days to decide whether or not the petition contains valid grounds for removal of the chairperson and commissioner," said Muturi.

As the petition was being read on the floor of the House, five legislators criticised EACC, calling it a let down in the war against corruption.