Senator Kembi Gitura claim court cases by leaders derailing fight on graft

Deputy Senate Speaker Kembi Gitura at a past event. FILE PHOTO | WACHIRA MWANGI | NATION MEDIA GROUP

What you need to know:

  • He said courts should exercise restraint when issuing injunctions.
  • Makueni Speaker Stephen Ngelu said it is unfortunate that courts are taking over the roles of the Senate.

Deputy Senate Speaker Kembi Gitura has raised concerns over cases filed by leaders accused of corruption saying the suits were derailing the fight against the vice.

Mr Gitura said the institutional conflicts between the judiciary, legislature and the executive are a threat to development.

He said courts should exercise restraint when issuing injunctions and fast-track cases involving leaders accused of violating the constitution.

“We must work on conflict of institutions to succeed in development of this country. Courts must recognise they are operating within a certain framework,” Mr Gitura said.

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He spoke during a consultative forum between senators and speakers of county assemblies held at Serena Beach Resort Hotel in Mombasa.

Mr Gitura cited Embu Governor Martin Wambora’s case whom he said might remain in office for the rest of his term, due to court orders yet the Senate had endorsed his impeachment, through the legal
procedures.

"How are we going to govern these counties through courts and court injunctions?” Mr Gitura said.

Makueni County Assembly Speaker Stephen Ngelu said it is unfortunate that courts are taking over the roles of the Senate and in the process frustrating county operations.

Kirinyaga County Senator Mr Daniel Karaba said they would boycott the governors’ conference in Kisumu next week if county leaders adversely mentioned in corruption address them.

“We shall demand to see the programme for the forthcoming Council of Governors conference in Kisumu to see those who will be talking to us,” said Mr Karaba.