Governors Face Criminal Sanctions Over Snubbing Parliamentary Oversight, Warns Wetang’ula

By Andrew Mbuva.

National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has issued a stern warning to county governors, cautioning that continued failure to appear before parliamentary committees could attract criminal sanctions.

The Speaker raised concern over what he described as a growing trend of governors ignoring summons to respond to reports by the Auditor-General of Kenya on the use of billions of shillings allocated to counties. He termed the conduct a dangerous precedent that undermines accountability in a democratic system.

Speaking during a youth empowerment programme in Mabera, Kuria West Constituency in Migori County, Wetang’ula affirmed Parliament’s resolve to uphold its constitutional oversight role and ensure prudent use of public resources.

“As Parliament, we will not compromise on oversight. For whom much is given, much more is expected. You cannot take billions of taxpayers’ money and, when called upon to explain its use, refuse to appear,” he said.

The Speaker emphasized that all 47 governors are obligated to honour parliamentary summons and account for public funds, warning that defiance would not go unpunished.

In a move signalling a tougher stance, Wetang’ula directed Rarieda MP Otiende Amollo, a Senior Counsel and member of his legal team, to lead efforts in formulating legal provisions that would impose criminal penalties on non-compliant county chiefs.

“Governors are not owners of public funds; they are trustees and custodians of the public good. When they err, they must come to Parliament and answer questions,” he stated.

The Speaker was accompanied by several leaders, including Migori Senator Eddy Oketch, Suna West MP Peter Masara, Migori Woman Representative Fatuma Mohamed, Kuria West MP Mathias Robi, Navakholo MP Emmanuel Wangwe, and Amollo.

On the rising cost of living, Wetang’ula commended Members of Parliament for swiftly approving amendments to the Value Added Tax (VAT) on fuel, following a request by President William Ruto. The amendments reduced VAT on fuel products by half, a measure he said would ease pressure on households and businesses.

“Fuel touches every aspect of our lives—from transport to food production and small enterprises. Reducing VAT was necessary to cushion wananchi,” he noted.

Wetang’ula also called for national cohesion, urging Kenyans to rise above ethnic divisions. He referenced the legacy of opposition politics championed by Raila Odinga, crediting it with advancing constitutional reforms and promoting inclusivity.

“Kenya has no small or big tribes—only Kenyans. We must treat one another with respect and dignity,” he said.

Addressing the youth, the Speaker underscored the importance of responsible use of empowerment funds, urging beneficiaries to invest in productive ventures and build sustainable livelihoods.

“Use these funds wisely to grow your enterprises. Do not squander opportunities meant to uplift your lives,” he advised