MCAs debated a motion to remove Public Works, Transport and Infrastructure CECM Lekonaya Kibwalel from office due to claims of public misconduct and having unkempt beards.

Kisanana Ward MCA Jacob Cheboiwo introduced the resolution to remove the minister, which was debated for nearly four hours.

MCA Cheboiwo accused the CECM of attending county gatherings dressed shabbily and often intoxicated, which he claims violates the Public Officer Ethics Act.

PHOTO | COURTESY Lekonaya Kibwalel

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“The CECM contravened section 20(1) of the Public Officer Ethics Act which compels a public officer to conduct his private affairs in a way that moves public confidence in the integrity of his office. It has been observed that the CECM drinks openly in open spaces thus causing disrepute to the office he holds,” the MCA said in a document.

“The CECM has violated section 9 (f) of the Public Office Ethics Act that commands State officers to maintain an appropriate standard of dress and hygiene. It is observed that the CECM keeps untrimmed beard and dresses even in official functions of the county government which is conduct of a public office holder.”

He added: “On one occasion, it was observed that the CECM attended a public function heavily drunk and it took the intervention of the MC to shield him from public ridicule.”

MCAs who rejected the move chastised the County Assembly for delaying a 'useless' resolution while the county was dealing with more significant challenges, such as insecurity and hunger.

"I cannot discuss someone's beard as an honorable member paid by the people of Mogotio." We all have beards, and I purposefully did not shave mine because I wanted to emphasize that I'm a man with beards...the leader of the Majority also has beards," Mogotio MCA Mark Sialo said.

Others chastised their colleagues for bringing a motion to the House floor that was unimportant to the public.

"Baringo, people are watching us discussing beards, someone taking alcohol…I know some of the members in this House, myself included, indulge sometimes. You see a speck in someone’s eye and don’t see a log in yours," another Nominated MCA, Sharon Jerotich.