This archive report was first published on 22 May 2020.
On May 22, 2020, the Kenyan Senate witnessed a dramatic oratory display as Senators debated a motion to oust Professor Abraham Kithure Kindiki as Deputy Speaker.
From legal jargon to biblical quotes, Senators advanced their arguments, ultimately leading to Kindiki's downfall.
The main contention was whether Kindiki's removal was due to his competence or loyalty to the Jubilee Party.
Kindiki himself said, 'I freely forgive those who have crucified me.'
Senator James Orengo accused Kindiki and other Jubilee members of playing 'power games' after they defied a call for duty at State House.
Orengo compared the situation to the Russian mystic Rasputin, saying, 'Jubilee Party members should decide whether they are going to obey the Czar or to obey Rasputin.'
Senator Kindiki responded, 'Stop pretending that this is about democracy and rights. These are party politics and power games.'
Despite his efforts, Kindiki was ultimately voted out, with 54 votes against 7.
As he left the Deputy Speaker's seat, Kindiki said, 'No one can hurt me without my permission.'
