By Patricia Mollyne Mataga
Members of the County Assembly might soon find it hard to impeach governors, deputy governors and County Executive Committee Members (CECMs).
This follows a proposed bill that seeks to raise the bar high for the impeachment of the county officials.
The County Impeachment Bill is being sponsored by Kiambu Senator Karungo wa Thang’wa County Impeachment Bill wa.
In an update on his social media pages on Friday, June 7, 2024, Thang’wa said the bill has already been approved by the Senate Speaker and it is set to be published.
“I am excited to announce that the Speaker of the Senate has approved my county impeachment bill for publication,” the Senator said.
“This groundbreaking legislation seeks to provide a clear framework and guidance for the removal from office of Governors, their deputies, County Executive Committee (CEC) members, and County Speakers in Kenya,” he added.
Thang’wa, a former MCA and CECM who also faced an impeachment motion said the current law lacks the procedural safeguards guaranteed by Articles 47 and 50 of the Constitution on fair administrative action.
He argues that his bill aims to address the gap and ensure a fair process for all involved.
The bill has already received its first nod from the Senate Committee on Justice, Legal Affairs and Human Rights, with a few recommendations and amendments.
“Now, the public will have the opportunity to provide their input and opinions after the bill is published,” he said.
According to the Senator, the County Impeachment Bill makes it harder to impeach anyone on “flimsy, emotional, or purely political grounds”.
“Instead, it provides a fair hearing to the accused, ensuring that due process is followed and the rights of all parties are protected,” he added.
He expressed confidence that the bill will contribute to a more transparent and accountable system of governance at the county level.