This archive report was first published on 30 July 2019.
On July 30, 2019, High Court Judge Mumbi Ngugi made a landmark ruling that governors facing criminal charges must keep away from their offices. This decision was made in a case involving Samburu County Governor Moses Lenolkulal, who is charged alongside 13 others.
According to the judge, Section 62(6) of the Anti-corruption and Economic Crimes Act, which allows governors to remain in office despite facing charges, is contrary to the provisions of the Constitution and national values.
Just days after the ruling, Chief Magistrate Lawrence Mugambi followed suit and barred Kiambu Governor Ferdinand Waititu from accessing his office.
Justice Ngugi's ruling was based on the principle that allowing governors to remain in office while facing charges would entrench corruption and impunity in the country.
She questioned why Kenyans would delegate legislative authority to allow governors to remain in office despite abusing their power and enriching themselves at the expense of the public.
