How Mithika Linturi survived impeachment

Mbui explained that the decision to spare Linturi was predetermined during the committee's formation. He criticised the committee's approach, asserting that instead of conducting a thorough investigation as required by law, it acted more like a judicial body, neglecting its parliamentary duties.

The MP highlighted the committee's failure to call key witnesses, including the Principal Secretary, who could have provided crucial information regarding Linturi's culpability. Despite the committee's authority to summon witnesses, Mbui claimed that certain members, led by the chair, refused to do so, citing procedural loopholes.

"They (members of the committee) turned this committee into a court, so instead of it being a quayside judicial process, it became a judicial process meaning the parliamentary process was completely ignored," he revealed, adding "there were many allegations that were not substantiated, by the fact that there were some witnesses we did not hear from."

According to Mbui, the committee's proceedings lacked an investigative nature, with key members prioritising judgment over fact-finding. The report submitted by the committee reflected this bias, said the Kathiani MP.

The 11-member committee, as mandated by the Constitution, was responsible for investigating the allegations against Linturi and issuing a report based on their findings.

However, Mbui asserted that the committee failed to conduct a thorough investigation, with certain members focusing solely on reaching a predetermined conclusion.

In the vote to save the CS, Marsabit Woman Rep Naomi Waqo chaired the committee, joined by MPs George Murugara (Tharaka), Samuel Chepkonga (Ainabkoi), Malulu Injendi (Malava), Njeri Maina (Kirinyaga), Kassim Tandaza (Matuga), and Kitui South MP Rachael Nyamai.

Only four MPs, including Robert Mbui (Kathiani), Catherine Omanyo (Busia Women Rep), T J Kajwang (Ruaraka), and Yusuf Farah (Wajir West) dissented.

Despite the ruling, the Agriculture CS remains under investigation by various agencies, including the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) and both the Agriculture Committees of the National Assembly and the Senate, concerning his role in the procurement and distribution of counterfeit fertilizer to farmers.