Kericho impeachment drama: Sen Cherargei threatens MCA with arrest
By Kiprono Keileb, August 29, 2025Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei, on Friday, August 29, 2025, turned the heat on Cheplanget Ward MCA, Hillary Kibet, warning that he risks arrest for violating Kenya’s data protection laws.
The senator issued the stern caution during the ongoing impeachment proceedings of Kericho Governor Erick Mutai, where Kibet was appearing as a witness for the governor’s side.
Cherargei accused the MCA of breaching privacy laws by recording conversations without consent, warning him that such actions carry serious legal consequences.
“Are you aware that data protection is criminal and illegal to record someone on the phone without consent? Are you ready to be arrested immediately after this for breaking the Data Protection laws?” Cherargei pressed.
The senator’s intervention sparked murmurs in the chamber as the witness attempted to defend himself. Kibet, who has been vocal in supporting Governor Mutai’s embattled administration, was fielding tough questions on his role in the events leading to the impeachment motion.
Impeachment context
Governor Mutai is facing a high-stakes battle for survival after Members of the County Assembly passed a motion to impeach him. The charges against him include abuse of office, misappropriation of funds, in which fictitious payments of Ksh85.7 million were said to have been paid to companies for goods and services not delivered, gross misconduct, which includes using his office to bully, humiliate, and harass county employees. Specific claims under this heading include. The Senate is now hearing the case to determine whether Mutai should be removed from office
Kibet, as a close ally of the governor, has been a key figure in the defence team, but Cherargei’s grilling highlighted how witnesses themselves are not immune from scrutiny.
Data protection law spotlight
The exchange also brought attention to Kenya’s 2019 Data Protection Act, which criminalises unauthorised recording or sharing of personal information. Cherargei’s remarks suggested that even in political disputes, the law cannot be overlooked.
The impeachment trial continues, with senators expected to deliver their verdict on whether Governor Mutai remains in office. But the sharp exchange between Cherargei and Kibet has already underscored how personal accountability is shaping the heated proceedings.