Kisii Deputy Governor Dr Robert Monda faced a Senate plenary on Wednesday, denying charges of gross misconduct, abuse of office, violating the Constitution and crimes under national law.

Dr Monda is accused of improperly soliciting KES. 800,000 from Dennis Mokaya and his family to secure a job at the Gusii Water and Sanitation Company (GWASCO). He allegedly then sent KES. 100,000 to GWASCO's Managing Director to influence Mokaya's employment, but this request was rejected.

Additionally, the Deputy Governor is accused of misusing Kisii County enforcement officers by deploying them to arrest his brother for felling trees.

In a considered ruling on preliminary objections raised, Speaker Amason Kingi blocked National Assembly Majority Whip Silvanus Osoro from representing Dr Monda, citing a potential conflict of interest due to the separation of powers. Speaker Kingi emphasized the importance of Parliament's role in protecting the Constitution and promoting good governance.

“I therefore direct that the Hon Silvanus Osoro, MP cease forthwith to serve as part of the legal team for the Deputy Governor,” stated Speaker Kingi.

The County Assembly presented evidence supporting its impeachment decision, with five witnesses testifying. Dr Monda will have the opportunity to defend himself against the charges today, and thereafter both parties shall make their Closing Statements. As curtains fall on the impeachment hearing, the Senate will then proceed to vote on each charge, and a guilty verdict would result in his removal from office.