Select Committee Conclude Linturi’s Impeachment Hearing, Retreats To Write Report

The Select Committee on the Proposed Dismissal of Cabinet Secretary (CS) for Agriculture, wrapped up hearings today with closing statements from the mover of the Special Motion, hon. Jack Wamboka and the Hon. Franklin Mithika linturi.

On May 2nd 2024, the National Assembly approved a motion that seeks the dismissal of CS Linturi, who is alleged to have approved the procurement and distribution of fake fertilizer by the National Cereals and Produce Board, has failed to exercise public trust and to carry out the duties in a transparent and accountable manner amounting to gross misconduct and gross violation of the Constitution.

In his closing statement, CS Linturi, through his lawyer Senior Counsel Muthomi Thiankolu, distanced himself from the subsidized fertliser procurement process. “A cabinet secretary is not directly involved in procurement,” SC Thiankolu argued, placing responsibility on the NCPB Managing Director.

SC Thiankolu also countered that the allegations as outlined in the motion lacked specifics and a clear link between CS Linturi and the alleged wrongdoing.

However, Hon. Jack Wamboka, the mover of the dismissal motion, countered that “the responsibility falls to the minister.”

Hon. Wamboka emphasized the impact on Kenyan farmers. “There are farmers who are affected,” he stated, “Kenyans social economic rights have been tampered with.” He urged the Select Committee “not to turn a blind eye” and uphold the constitution, highlighting “accountability” and the “moral fabric of any society.”

Senior Counsel Khaminwa, representing Hon. Wamboka, argued that “fake fertilizer was put on the market” and the CS “must be held accountable.” He accused Linturi of trivializing the motion and claimed they had “proved the case that the minister must go.”

During the meeting, Hon. Naomi Waqo(Marsabit County) gave a ruling regarding admittance of new witnesses. In a close vote , the 11 Member Select Committee opted not to invite the Principal Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture, Dr. Kipronoh Rono and the Managing Director of KEL Chemicals Limited to provide information to the Select Committee.

In her closing remarks, Committee Chair, Hon. Naomi Waqo stated ,“the closing statements by the sponsor of the motion and the Cabinet Secretary marks the end of the investigation process. On 8th May 2024, we had an opportunity to hear the evidence of the sponsor of the motion, Hon. Jack Wamboka and 5 witnesses and on 9th May 2024, we concluded by hearing the evidence of Hon Mithika Linturi, the CS for Agriculture.”

Hon. Waqo proceeded to acknowledge the commitment and dedication to duty by Members of the Committee. Adding that, “I thank all the media houses that have been present since this process began and up to today and even after here because I know it is their duty to release the information as needed by citizens.”

The Select Committee on the Proposed Dismissal of Cabinet Secretary for Agriculture and Livestock Development will prepare a report which will be tabled and considered by the National Assembly on Monday,13th May 2024 in a special sitting.