Kericho Governor Eric Mutai’s turbulent tenure has taken another dramatic turn after Members of the County Assembly voted to impeach him for the second time in less than a year, escalating a political storm that has divided the tea-rich county.

Mutai, who came into office in 2022 promising efficiency, transparency, and a new beginning, has instead faced a steady wave of political battles, corruption claims, and legal tussles.

His administration, which started with ambitious pledges to strengthen healthcare, improve rural roads, and support youth empowerment, is now under siege.

The latest motion, brought by Sigowet Ward MCA Kiprotich Rogony, accuses the governor of gross violation of the Constitution, abuse of office, and misuse of county funds.

At the heart of the allegations are claims that his administration paid Sh85 million to 46 companies for undelivered goods and services, alongside earlier accusations of irregular procurement and diversion of departmental funds.

Tempers flared on Friday during a heated special sitting at the County Assembly as 33 out of 47 MCAs voted to remove Mutai.

Chaos erupted moments after the results were announced, with rival camps storming the floor of the House, some exchanging blows while others shouted at one another. Women MCAs hurled insults as sergeants-at-arms struggled to restore order.

This impeachment follows a similar attempt in October 2024, when Mutai was accused of mismanagement, including the controversial “Equaliser Kazi Mtaani” programme launched without budget approval and alleged misuse of Sh9 million emergency funds after the Londiani truck crash.

Though the County Assembly then voted for his removal, Mutai survived after the Senate threw out the charges, ruling that the assembly had not met the constitutional threshold.

In the new case, MCAs insist they have now secured the required numbers, sending the matter back to the Senate for determination.

Mutai, however, maintains the process is illegal, politically driven, and engineered by his deputy, Fred Kirui, whom he accuses of leading a campaign against him. Kirui had earlier asked the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission to investigate the alleged payments.

Despite a court order issued earlier in the week barring debate on the motion until a petition was heard, MCAs proceeded with the sitting, arguing that Kericho residents deserved action.

Mutai has rejected the impeachment as a witch-hunt, vowing to challenge it in both the Senate and in court.

The high-stakes showdown now moves to the Senate, which will decide whether Mutai keeps his seat or becomes the latest county boss to be ousted under Kenya’s devolution system.