Drama and laughter filled the Senate chambers during the impeachment trial of Kericho Governor Erick Mutai after one of his witnesses sought permission to testify in vernacular.
Kapkatet Ward MCA Amos Bii, who was among 18 MCAs who swore affidavits stating they did not support the impeachment motion against Governor Mutai, left senators amused as he insisted that speaking in his native language would help him deliver his message more effectively.
During cross-examination by Governor Mutai’s lead counsel, Katwa Kigen, Bii maintained that he had not voted for the motion.
“I never voted. I’m an old man, and I can say the truth, yes. I can even take the Bible,” he told the Senate.
Turning to the Speaker, Veronica Maina, Bii made an unusual request:
“May I request, Honourable Speaker, if you can allow me to say in vernacular, I can give my people advice. Because raising a Bible in front of these senators and saying something which is not good, you cannot stay longer.”
His request drew laughter, but the Speaker quickly reminded him of parliamentary procedure.
“I encourage you to speak in the parliamentary language because you represent the great people of your ward,” she said. “I am sure business in Kericho County is transacted either in Kiswahili or in English. We don’t have an official translator right now.”
Unrelenting, the 63-year-old MCA pressed on:
“Because it is good to give advice to young people, maybe they do not understand. I am an old man, and I know what a sin is. With your permission…”
Sensing the stalemate, lawyer Kigen urged his client to proceed in Kiswahili if he preferred.
But the Speaker stood her ground, stressing the need for clarity and time management.
“Yes, we are struggling with time. Kindly proceed in the parliamentary language of your choice, either Kiswahili or English. For now, because of time, would you like to use Kiswahili?” she asked.
Finally, Bii relented: “May I use English?” he said, sending the chamber into another round of laughter.
The trial, which began on Wednesday, is set to conclude today. The Speaker will also rule on whether the impeachment met the required threshold.
