Wamuzi News Ke
A Senate impeachment hearing meant to determine the political fate of Isiolo Governor Abdi Guyo descended into brief chaos Monday after Embu Senator Alexander Mundigi was sharply reprimanded for going off-script during the official proceedings.
The dramatic moment unfolded during a highly charged session, where lawmakers gathered to weigh serious allegations against Governor Guyo, who faces removal from office on grounds of abuse of office and constitutional violations.
Senator Accused of Political Grandstanding
As the hearing progressed, Senator Mundigi veered off the impeachment debate, launching into a series of political outbursts unrelated to the charges facing the embattled Isiolo Governor. The remarks, which touched on extraneous political issues and rival party grievances, prompted an immediate rebuke from the Senate leadership.
“You are out of order. Please confine your remarks to the matter before us,” the presiding Speaker warned, after multiple senators raised concerns that the line of discussion was irrelevant and disruptive.
Mundigi’s attempt to redirect the proceedings drew murmurs from the chamber and further delayed the critical trial, which has captured national attention.
Guyo’s Political Future Hangs in the Balance
The impeachment hearing stems from a vote by Isiolo County Assembly in which 16 out of 18 Members of County Assembly (MCAs) backed a motion to remove Governor Guyo from office. The charges against him include allegations of misappropriation of public funds, illegal procurement practices, and disregard for legal procedures.
Guyo, however, insists the impeachment is politically motivated and procedurally flawed. His legal team has anchored their defense on the Senate’s own precedent, notably the dismissal of similar charges against Kericho Governor Erick Mutai earlier this year, where the court ruled on procedural irregularities.
Senate Proceedings Under Scrutiny
While the Senate is constitutionally mandated to conduct impeachment hearings with fairness and impartiality, Monday’s incident raised fresh concerns about political interference and discipline within the chamber. The presiding leadership warned that any further digressions would be met with stronger sanctions, signaling a zero-tolerance approach to political distractions during sensitive proceedings.
Observers say the disruption highlights a growing trend of senators using high-profile hearings to score political points, often at the expense of legal procedure and public trust.
Impeachment Hearing Nears Critical Juncture
The Senate is expected to conclude the hearings within two days, after which a vote will determine Governor Guyo’s fate. A majority vote by senators is required to either uphold or overturn the impeachment resolution passed by the county assembly.
If the Senate votes in favor, Guyo will be removed from office with immediate effect. If the impeachment is rejected, he will resume office, a move likely to spark political tension in Isiolo and beyond.
Public Sentiment and Legal Ramifications
The impeachment trial has stirred intense debate across the country, with civil society groups, legal experts, and ordinary Kenyans closely monitoring the outcome. The case is seen as a litmus test for the Senate’s ability to rise above partisanship and deliver justice through due process.
“This is not just about one governor. It’s about the integrity of public office and whether institutions can act without bias,” said constitutional lawyer Joyce Mbogo.
Looking Ahead
As the hearing resumes, the focus remains squarely on the Senate’s capacity to uphold the rule of law in the face of mounting political pressure. Senator Mundigi’s outburst may have disrupted the moment, but the stakes remain unchanged: a governor’s future, a county’s leadership, and the credibility of an institution hang in the balance.
