A formal notice of motion to impeach Kericho Governor Eric Mutai has been presented at the county assembly. The motion, tabled by Sigowet Ward MCA Kiprotich Rogony on Tuesday, outlines four key charges: gross violation of national and county laws, abuse of office, gross violation of the constitution, and gross misconduct.

The allegations focus on misappropriation, misallocation, and illegal use of county funds and revenue. While presenting the motion, Rogony accused the governor of actions that have brought "ridicule, embarrassment, and disrepute" to the governor's office, the assembly, and the people of Kericho. He argued that Governor Mutai’s continued tenure undermines effective service delivery to the county's residents.

“The governor has repeatedly committed constitutional violations that subvert the structure of government and undermine the integrity of the office and the constitution itself,” Rogony said.

In response, County Assembly Speaker Patrick Mutai scheduled the motion for debate on October 2, 2024.

Heavy Security and Protests

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Meanwhile, a group of Governor Mutai’s supporters was blocked from entering the County Assembly as they protested against the impeachment motion. Police maintained a strong presence at the assembly entrance and nearby, while demonstrators, holding pro-Mutai placards and chanting “No Mutai, No Peace,” warned MCAs backing the motion to remain inside the assembly.

The MCAs allege that the governor misappropriated funds intended for victims of the Londiani tragedy. While the governor has publicly stated that the county government would cover all medical bills for the victims, the charges question why funds were disbursed to various public hospitals, contradicting the governor’s earlier assurances.

Additionally, Governor Mutai is accused of failing to perform his duties despite receiving substantial allowances.

This is not the first attempt to impeach Mutai. In 2023, a group of Kericho MCAs threatened a similar motion over allegations that he misappropriated Sh14.5 million meant for Londiani tragedy victims. More recently, in June 2024, Mutai faced scrutiny for spending Sh425.6 million allocated for pending bills. The County Public Accounts Committee, led by Homa Bay Senator Moses Kajwang’, demanded an explanation as to why only Sh341.5 million was used to pay suppliers and contractors.