The National Assembly Special Committee probing the impeachment motion of Agriculture and Livestock Cabinet Secretary Mithika Linturi in the fertilizer scandal has voted against the move.
The Parliamentary Committee in its report findings, cited that CS Linturi was not responsible for the fake fertilizer mess hence acquitting him of all the charges brought against him.
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According to Naomi Waqo, who also doubles up as the chairperson of the 11- select committee, four members dissented and made it publicly known to the committee.
Seven out of 11 committee members investigating the fake fertilizer scam voted to save Linturi.
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Chairing the committee, Waqo declared that the allegations outlined in the special motion against Linturi regarding gross violation of the constitution, serious reasons for believing he committed a crime under national law, and gross misconduct were found to be unsubstantiated.
Opiyo Wandayi, leader of Minority in parliament, expressed his concerns regarding the outcome of the impeachment proceedings against Agriculture CS Mithika Linturi.
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He stressed that the intention behind the constitutional framework of 2010 was not for the decision of the parliament to be overruled by a mere seven individuals.
Wandayi highlighted the discrepancy between the overwhelming support for Linturi’s dismissal by 149 members of parliament and the subsequent decision of the select committee to clear him of wrongdoing.
Robert Mbui, Member of Parliament representing Kathiani Constituency and Deputy Leader of Minority in the National Assembly, echoing similar sentiments, drew attention to the plight of Kenyan farmers who were allegedly deceived into purchasing fake fertilizer under the oversight of the Agriculture CS.
He pointed out that the motion to dismiss Linturi garnered substantial support from members of the parliament.
“Kenyan farmers were duped into purchasing fake fertilizer through NCPB under the full glare and watch of the CS for Agriculture,”
“A motion was brought to this house to dismiss that CS and members of the house voted overwhelmingly to get rid of the CS, then the committee created to confirm the report and the vote of the MPs, 7 of the members of the committee went and turned the verdict of 149 MPs,” he said.
Also Read: Wetang’ula Recalls MPs for Special Session to Determine the Fate of Linturi
Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mithika Linturi found himself embroiled in a contentious impeachment battle following allegations of his involvement in a fertilizer scandal.
The scandal revolved around the distribution of fake fertilizers by the National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB), prompting widespread outrage and calls for accountability.
The impeachment motion against CS Linturi was spearheaded by Bumula MP Wamboka Wanami, who cited Linturi’s approval of the procurement and distribution of counterfeit fertilizer as grounds for dismissal.
This motion gained considerable traction within the National Assembly, with 149 out of 188 MPs supporting it, reflecting the gravity of the allegations and the public outcry over the issue.
The overwhelming support for the impeachment motion prompted the formation of a select committee to investigate the allegations.
Chaired by Marsabit Woman Representative Naomi Waqo, the committee was tasked with examining the veracity of the accusations within a 11-day period.
The select committee commenced its probe, allowing for the introduction of new evidence in the impeachment proceedings.
Bumula MP Wamboka sought to strengthen his case by presenting fresh evidence, including testimonies from Agriculture Principal Secretary Paul Rono and Kel Chemicals Chief Operating Officer Devesh Patel.
According to Wamboka, the testimonies were crucial in establishing Linturi’s alleged role in the fertilizer scandal.
The impeachment hearings were not devoid of drama, with Linturi’s legal team challenging the admissibility of new evidence and alleging ulterior motives behind the motion.
Linturi implicated his former partner, Aldai MP Marianne Kitany, suggesting personal vendettas as driving forces behind the impeachment bid.
However, Wamboka stressed the gravity of the allegations, urging focus on accountability rather than personal matters.
“I have keenly looked at the responses by the CS and it is nothing short of a love letter by a jilted lover,”
“These are grave matters and should not be reduced to lover matters.” said Wamboka.
Also Read: Mithika Linturi: Billionaire Politician Ruto Appointed with 35 Pending Court Cases
With the conclusion of the hearings, the select committee is set to present its report to the National Assembly.
Speaker Moses Wetangula convened a special sitting to deliberate on the committee’s findings, setting the stage for Linturi’s ouster or continue serving in office.
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