Khalwale, Kabogo in verbal exchange

Kisumu, Kenya: Kakamega Senator Bonny Khalwale on Tuesday surprised delegates attending the second devolution conference in Kisumu, when he took on Kiambu Governor William Kabogo, asking him 'hitting questions'.

Kabogo was chairing a discussion on Alternative Dispute Resolution and Rule of Law in Counties when Khalwale rose and asked him why he had refused to honour Senate summonses over financial queries if he was serious about enhancing accountability.

The encounter during the first session of the conference excited delegates who cheered him on, then cheered Kabogo more when he responded.

"Why have you refused to honour Senate summonses? Are you above the law? Why can't you be held to account for the billions under inquiry? If you think the Senate is not the right forum, where is that other forum?

Kabogo attempted to cut him short by asking him to restrict himself to the topic at hand. He claimed the senator was attempting to take over the event.

But Khalwale insisted he was within the topic of rule of law and asked the Governor to instead "hold his breath" and then respond.

Kabogo took the microphone and responded: "This is not the forum to discuss a personal matter.

There are many forums, including the floor of the House where honourable Khalwale sits. It's just that we want to get a little bit serious here," he said, brushing off the matter.

Siaya Governor Cornel Rasanga who hosted the session would not respond to Khalwale: "Senator, you still want me to respond despite you having been floored? The matter is in court!"