The impeachment motion against Kitui County Finance CECM Peter Mwikya Kilonzo, marked by missing witnesses, alleged bribery, and executive interference, has become a defining moment in the county’s governance. The motion, initially supported by a majority in the County Assembly, crumbled spectacularly when it came to a vote, raising questions about justice and accountability.
Missing Witness, Missing Evidence
The motion to impeach Kilonzo had gained traction following allegations of gross misconduct and other serious charges. However, during the hearing, a critical witness failed to appear before the Assembly’s special committee investigating the claims.
Mr. Ismael Gurhan, the County Budget Officer from the Office of the Controller of Budget in Kitui, was expected to provide key evidence. His absence raised suspicions of foul play, with insiders alleging that a senior county official had intervened to prevent his testimony. According to sources, Gurhan’s testimony could have exposed questionable dealings within the Finance docket.
Allegations of Bribery
Shortly after the impeachment motion was moved by Nguni MCA Hon. Jeremiah Mutua Musee, the drama unfolded in the Assembly. While Musee expected overwhelming support, no member rose to second the motion, effectively killing it. Celebrations broke out among MCAs allied to the Executive, further fueling rumors of bribery.
Insiders allege that several MCAs were financially incentivized to withdraw their support for the motion. These claims were bolstered by Hon. Mutua, who accused the Executive of handpicking MCAs to protect their own interests.
Intimidation and Violence
The power struggles escalated beyond the Assembly chambers. Speaker Kelvin Kinengo, his deputy, and two other members of the Assembly were reportedly attacked by goons at a Kitui hotel prior to the tablingof the report at the floor of the house. Witnesses claim the attackers threatened the leaders, ordering them to leave the premises immediately.
Despite the severity of the incident, neither Governor Julius Malombe nor senior elected officials have condemned the attack. Instead, the incident was celebrated by certain bloggers in a popular Kitui WhatsApp group, who praised the goons’ actions as “bravery.”
Budget Battles Add to Tensions
The impeachment motion unfolded against the backdrop of a protracted budget standoff between the Assembly and the Executive. Governor Malombe had rejected the Assembly’s initial supplementary budget, citing concerns, and sent it back with recommendations.
The Assembly eventually passed the revised budget, which included Ksh 64 million for an Assembly office project, resolving the impasse. However, the standoff had nearly paralyzed operations and strained relations between the two arms of government.
What Lies Ahead?
The failed impeachment motion has left Kitui residents with unanswered questions. Was the Finance CECM guilty of the allegations? Did the Executive meddle in the process? And most importantly, can the Assembly and the Executive repair their fractured relationship to deliver services to the people of Kitui?
As the dust settles, it is clear that power games, rather than justice, dictated the outcome of this high-stakes impeachment drama.
