All Senators Banned From Foreign Travel Over Gachagua Impeachment
Senate Speaker Amason Jeffah King barred all senators and Senate staff from international travel for the next 12 days, starting Tuesday.
In a letter dated October 8, Kingi instructed lawmakers to suspend any engagements outside Nairobi, focusing their efforts on the ongoing impeachment proceedings for Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and Kericho Governor Eric Mutai.
“With significant matters before the Senate in the coming days, all members must remain actively present,” Kingi emphasized in the statement.
He further stated, “As of Tuesday, October 8, 2024, all international travel by Senators and Senate staff is suspended. Committees must also halt any planned activities outside Nairobi until Saturday, October 19, 2024.”
The directive was issued to ensure that Senators remain fully focused on the pressing issues in the Senate.
“This decision ensures that Senators prioritize their involvement in critical proceedings without external distractions or interruptions,” the statement concluded.
On Wednesday, the Senate scheduled hearings for the Deputy President’s impeachment motion for the following Wednesday and Thursday.
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Instead of appointing a special 11-member committee, the entire Senate will hear the case in a plenary session, and a report will be tabled afterward, despite majority leader Aaron Cheruiyot’s suggestion to appoint a smaller group.
“This is new ground for the Senate, handling an impeachment hearing for a Deputy President. Although constitutional, it’s unprecedented. I encourage members to consider electing 11 of our most experienced members to make a well-considered decision,” Cheruiyot proposed.
Senate Minority Whip Edwin Sifuna, however, declined to second the motion, stating, “This matter is extraordinary and has drawn public interest. Given the house’s current atmosphere, especially among the minority, I respectfully decline to second this motion.”
The Senate Speaker also ordered the Deputy President to submit his defense by Monday, 5:00 PM.
In the coming weeks, the Senate will also address the impeachment of Kericho Governor Erick Mutai, following its decision to ignore court orders barring involvement in the impeachment.
A session was held on October 8 to hear the charges after the Kericho County Speaker, Patrick Mutai, forwarded the resolution to the Senate.
All Senators Banned From Foreign Travel Over Gachagua Impeachment