Senate to hear governor Mutai's impeachment in plenary next week

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Kericho Governor Eric Mutai will face his impeachment trial in the plenary next Wednesday, August 27, 2025, after a motion to appoint a special investigative committee failed.

Senate Majority Leader Mr Aaron Cheruiyot had moved to form an 11-member committee, but the motion collapsed after failing to attract a seconder.

The Senate will therefore handle the impeachment in a full House session, in line with Section 33A of the County Governments Act and Senate Standing Order 81B(2).

Senate Speaker Mr Amason Kingi, in a Gazette notice, confirmed that the hearings will run on Wednesday, August 27, Thursday, August 28, and Friday, August 29.

The Clerk of the Senate will issue hearing invitations to the parties on Thursday, August 21, while responses must be filed by Monday, August 25, at 5 p.m. All documents will be circulated to senators by Tuesday, August 26.

Dr Mutai’s impeachment motion stems from an August 15 resolution by the Kericho County Assembly, supported by 33 out of 47 MCAs.

He is accused of abuse of office, mismanagement of public funds, irregular procurement, and violations of the Public Finance Management Act and the County Governments Act.

One of the most striking allegations is the authorisation of Sh85.7 million in fictitious payments for goods and services never delivered.

These included sodas at Sh500 per bottle, tissue paper at Sh2,750 per bale, and hand towels at Sh3,600 each.

The Assembly also accused him of paying Sh5.1 million to companies without documentation, and of allowing contractors to be paid twice for work done years earlier.

Dr Mutai also faces accusations of nepotism, irregular appointments, and unlawful dismissals.

For instance, he allegedly confirmed his aide’s wife to a nursing position ahead of more qualified candidates.

He also appointed a county attorney in defiance of the law — an appointment later nullified by the Employment and Labour Relations Court.