On February 10 this year, Father Ambrose Kimutai of St Matthews Ndarawetta Parish filed a petition at the Bomet County Assembly seeking to impeach Governor Hillary Barchok.
In his petition, he cited several grounds, including violations of constitutional principles of leadership and integrity, theft of public funds, abuse of office, and breach of the oath of office.
As a clergyman and respected community figure, Father Kimutai believed his actions were in the best interest of the residents and would ensure accountability and prudent use of county resources.
However, he was taken aback when many elected leaders appeared reluctant to embrace his vision of accountable leadership.
Kimutai felt betrayed by members of the County Assembly, Kipsigis elders, other clergymen, local politicians, and government officials who united in support of the governor.
These leaders had different ideas and pushed for reconciliation between the ward representatives and the governor.
A leaders’ meeting was held, where it was collectively decided that impeaching the governor was “not a good idea.” Sources at the meeting revealed that the leaders persuaded Father Kimutai to withdraw his impeachment bid, emphasising the importance of working together for the socio-economic development of the county.
During the meeting, Governor Barchok expressed willingness to collaborate with other leaders to enhance development in Bomet and agreed to amend his approach for the sake of progress.
One County Assembly Member remarked, “Bomet has been making headlines for poor leadership. This shame must end. We have been electing individuals who do not care or whose mission does not involve taking the county to the next level. MCAs must continue to oversee the governor to ensure that services are delivered appropriately.”
Speaking to The Standard, Father Kimutai confirmed that he had halted the impeachment process and agreed to work alongside Governor Barchok for the greater good of the county.
“I have stopped the process, and we are now collaborating, which is what the electorate demands from us. I am pleased that we met with all the county leaders and agreed to work together. It is time to end political divisions and focus on service delivery,” he said.
The priest urged leaders to prioritise service delivery and uphold transparency for future generations.
During the burial of Councillor John Ngerechi, former chairman of the defunct Kipsigis County Council, Kimutai took the opportunity to explain to residents why he withdrew the petition. He assured mourners that his quest for accountable leadership was still alive and that his petition was neither personal nor politically motivated.
“I petitioned the Assembly in good faith, not out of malice. I have no political ambitions. I only seek accountability from our leaders,” he said, addressing Governor Barchok directly.
In a gesture of reconciliation, Governor Barchok welcomed constructive criticism of his administration and commended Kimutai for his ongoing advocacy for transparency.
“I respect you as a senior clergyman who has long fought for accountability. I recognise that your intentions are in good faith and not politically driven,” Barchok remarked.
Kimutai initiated the impeachment proceedings under Article 181 of the Constitution and Section 33 of the County Governments Act.
He also called on the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) to provide evidence before the Assembly and to suspend the governor pending the outcome of the impeachment process, as outlined in the County Governments Act.
“Governor Barchok should be impeached for misappropriation of funds, gross misconduct, and abuse of office,” he declared.
