Political storm in Machakos as MCAs oppose Speaker's impeachment

A section of Machakos MCAs allied to speaker Speaker Ann Kiusya defending her impeachment during a press confrence in Nairobi. [Courtesy]

Twenty-three Machakos County Assembly Members (MCAs), mainly from the minority side, have dismissed the impeachment motion against

as a politically motivated plot by Governor Wavinya Ndeti.

Addressing the press at a city hotel, the MCAs condemned the motion as baseless and pledged to block it, warning against executive interference in legislative affairs.

Kinanie MCA Francis Kavyu, speaking on behalf of the group, challenged the opposition's claim of having enough numbers to impeach the Speaker.

"They've been boasting about their numbers... Let them bring it to the floor of the house; we will defeat them," Kavyu asserted.

He emphasized that a successful impeachment requires both solid grounds and a majority vote-elements he believes the opposition lacks.

According to Kavyu, the opposition commands 30 MCAs, while 23 MCAs stand firmly against the motion, making it nearly impossible to secure the constitutionally required 45 votes to pass the impeachment.

Meanwhile, Mua MCA Francis Ngunga warned of a potential counter-impeachment motion against Governor Wavinya, accusing her of overstepping her authority and misusing public funds for political battles.

"Our hospitals lack essential medical supplies, yet millions have been wasted planning the Speaker's impeachment," Ngunga lamented.

He further alleged that some MCAs had been offered Sh1 million each to support the motion, a claim echoed by Kalama MCA Boniface Maeke, who insisted they would not betray their constituents for monetary gains.

The MCAs also criticized Governor Wavinya for disregarding advice from Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka, who recently urged against the impeachment.

Muthwani MCA, who had earlier threatened to push for Wavinya's impeachment, accused the governor of prioritizing her political ambitions over party unity and hinted at possible disciplinary action against her.

Mbiuni MCA Peter Kilonzo called for unity in the county, urging Governor Wavinya to work closely with her deputy, Francis Mwangangi, who has consistently advocated for harmony among ward representatives.

"We appreciate Deputy Governor Francis Mwangangi for always urging us to remain united. We ask Governor Wavinya to join him in fostering peace instead of fueling divisions," Kilonzo stated.

Further complicating the matter, the Machakos High Court has issued conservatory orders regarding the impeachment, with Speaker Kiusya seeking legal protection against what she deems an unfair process.

The case is set for mention on April 30, leaving the country's political landscape in uncertainty.

For the impeachment of a speaker the requirements include: A signature by the proposing member, affirming the truthfulness of the allegations, verification by the Clerk to ensure it meets the required form and style and has been signed by at least a third of all MCAs.

It also must be approved by the Speaker before the proposing member gives a three-day notice detailing the allegations.