The Senate on Wednesday terminated impeachment proceedings against Nyamira Governor Amos Nyaribo, ruling that the County
Assembly’s vote initiating the process did not meet the required threshold.
The decision effectively allows Nyaribo to continue in office, averting a political crisis in the western Kenya county.
Senate Speaker Amason Kingi confirmed the outcome, stating: “Senators have tonight voted to uphold a preliminary objection raised by Hon Amos Kimwomi Nyaribo, Governor of Nyamira County, opposing his impeachment trial before the Senate on grounds that the County Assembly of Nyamira did not meet the required threshold in a vote that approved his impeachment. Consequently, the impeachment proceedings stand terminated, and Hon Nyaribo remains in office as Governor.”
The impeachment motion had been tabled by members of the Nyamira County Assembly, citing alleged misconduct and mismanagement.
However, the Senate found that the procedural requirements under the Kenyan Constitution, which stipulate a specific majority for such motions to be valid, were not satisfied.
Nyamira County, historically a competitive political landscape within the larger Kisii region, has seen recurring tensions between the executive and the county assembly.
Governors in Kenya can only be impeached after a careful adherence to both county and national legislative processes, making this ruling a significant affirmation of constitutional safeguards.
Political analysts note that the Senate’s decision may set a precedent for similar cases across the country, highlighting the critical role of procedural compliance in devolution-era governance.
Governor Nyaribo, who assumed office in 2022, has previously emphasized his commitment to county development projects, including infrastructure upgrades and social welfare programs.
Following the Senate’s ruling, he is expected to resume his official duties without further interruption.