Speaker Amason Kingi on Wednesday ordered the arrest of Samburu Governor Jonathan Lati Lelelit after he repeatedly failed to honor summons to appear before the County Public Accounts Committee on audit queries related to county expenditure.
The directive sparked tension at Parliament buildings, where senators moved to enforce accountability by compelling the governor’s appearance. Lelelit had been summoned several times but failed to comply.
According to Senate proceedings, the governor was later spotted within Parliament precincts despite an active arrest warrant, prompting immediate action from the Speaker.
At around 3.25pm (EAT), Kingi instructed the Sergeant-at-Arms to apprehend and escort the governor to the nearest police station.
“I order the Sergeant-at-Arms to escort the Governor of Samburu, if within Parliament, to the nearest police station,” Kingi said.
The directive followed pressure from lawmakers led by Senate Majority Leader Aaron Cheruiyot, who called for firm action to deter defiance by county leaders.
Kitui Senator Enoch Wambua supported the move, warning that ignoring Senate summons undermines parliamentary authority and oversight responsibilities.
Confrontation at Parliament
Witnesses described chaotic moments as senators, led by Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, physically escorted Lelelit toward the committee. Reports indicated the governor attempted to evade the process, leading to near altercations involving his security team and parliamentary officers.
Sifuna criticized the governor for disregarding Senate authority by appearing within Parliament and addressing the media instead of complying with formal procedures.
“When summoned, governors are expected to appear before specific committees on scheduled dates. It is unacceptable to ignore that process,” Sifuna said.
The standoff highlights growing friction between lawmakers and county executives over financial accountability.
The Senate has intensified scrutiny of county governments amid concerns about misuse of public funds, signaling a tougher stance on compliance.
The developments come as other governors face similar scrutiny, raising questions about adherence to constitutional oversight mechanisms.
Kingi’s directive underscores the Senate’s push to assert its authority and enforce accountability across devolved units.
