Defiant MCAs ignore orders to reinstate deputy speaker

Baringo County Deputy Speaker Ameja Zelemoi (right) with lawyer Kipkoech Ng'etich (centre) and Tiaty MP William Kamket outside the Kabarnet Law Courts on March 19. [Julius Chepkwony, Standard]

Members of the Baringo County Assembly have vowed not to allow embattled Deputy Speaker Ameja Zelemoi back in office even after a court ordered his reinstatement.

Mr Zelemoi, who was impeached last week, had sued the county assembly and newly appointed Deputy Speaker Jacob Cheboiwo.

Through lawyer Kipkoech Ng’etich, Zelemoi argued that his ouster was illegal because due process had not been followed.

Zelemoi pointed out that no voting took place and that he was not served in writing with the allegations levelled against him as required in the Standing Orders.

He said he was not served with a copy of the allegations levelled against him as required in the Standing Orders.

On March 19, Kabarnet High Court Judge Edward Muriithi issued orders staying the assembly's decision to remove Zelemoi as the deputy speaker and chairperson of committees.

Justice Muriithi also stayed the decision to replace Zelemoi with Mr Cheboiwo.

The MCAs are now claiming not to have any knowledge of the judge's ruling.

Mochongoi ward representative Kipruto Kimosop said the county assembly had adjourned its sittings, and staff had vacated their offices because of the covid-19 pandemic.

"We have not been served, and have not seen the orders these people are talking about,” said Mr Kimosop.

The MCA, however, insisted that the assembly had followed due process in impeaching the deputy speaker.

"Zelemoi was rejected by the whole House and should stop the drama. Which House will he chair because we believe we cannot be led by a man who we rejected. We passed a Motion impeaching the deputy speaker and picked someone to replace him,” Kimosop said.

Tenges Ward Rep Silas Tochim also said that Zelemoi was no longer the deputy speaker, adding that the county assembly's decision carried the weight of a High Court order.

"If there are court orders, then we are ready to battle it out in court. He will never chair any committee or assembly,” said Mr Tochim.

Sacho MCA John Tarus said Zelemoi's impeachment was passed by majority of the House and they were prepared to defend their resolution in court.

Zelemoi was impeached following accusations of misusing county vehicles, assault charges and "failing to act as a symbol of unity".