Kericho Governor Mutai Dismisses Impeachment as Illegitimate

Kericho Governor Erick Mutai has dismissed his impeachment by the County Assembly, terming the process unlawful and predetermined.

The governor claimed that the electronic voting system used during the impeachment session was compromised, with reports indicating that some assembly staff allegedly pre-cast votes before the official session began. He maintains that the results did not reflect the will of Kericho residents and described the exercise as one designed to achieve a prearranged outcome.

Mutai announced that he would challenge the impeachment through legal channels. He indicated that he has additional evidence pointing to irregularities in the process, which he plans to present before the court as part of his petition.

The impeachment has triggered renewed tension in Kericho’s political landscape, with observers warning that the standoff could widen divisions between the executive and the county assembly. Analysts note that the case could set a significant precedent for how electronic voting systems are managed in county assemblies during crucial decisions such as impeachments.

If upheld, the move would make Mutai one of the few county governors to be ousted through impeachment since the advent of devolution. However, his legal challenge is expected to prolong the battle, with the possibility of the matter escalating to the Senate for further determination.

The County Assembly leadership, on its part, has maintained that due process was followed and that the decision was a reflection of the people’s representatives. The clash between the two arms of county government is expected to dominate Kericho’s political agenda in the coming weeks as the case heads to court.