Narok Senator Ledama Olekina has fired at Governors for failing to appear before the Senate Public Accounts Committee, maintaining that appearing before the Senate is not a betrayal.

In a statement on his official X account on Monday, March 30, 2026, Ledama cautioned Governors against snubbing the summons, explaining why Article 223 of the Constitution will not come to their rescue.

On his part, the Narok Senator explained that appearing before the Senate ought to be a personal accountability for Governors and not a betrayal to the Council of Governors.

At the same time, Ledama opened up on the possibilities of the Senate blocking the Division of Revenue to Counties, unlike the National Government, which he noted does not have the power to do so.

“You can’t hide behind collective decisions when prosecuted. @KenyaGovernors Appearing before the Senate isn’t betrayal, it’s personal accountability. Remember, the Senate can block the Division of Revenue, and unlike the national government, Article 223 won’t save you. Think carefully, blame won’t shield you this time,” Ledama stated.

Senator Orengo snubbs meeting

Meanwhile, Ledama’s remarks come just moments after the Siaya Governor James Orengo refused to be questioned by the Senate watchdog committee, citing an ongoing standoff between the Council of Governors (CoG) and the Senate over accountability procedures.

Appearing before the Senate Public Accounts Committee on Monday, March 30, 2026, chaired by Homa Bay senator Moses Kajwang’, Orengo maintained that while he had honoured the summons and submitted the required documents, he would not proceed with the session until the dispute between governors and senators is resolved.

“The committee is aware there is a stalemate between the Council of Governors and the Senate about appearing before this committee,” Orengo said.

 “I am seeking the indulgence of the committee. Having produced the documents, I would not be comfortable moving any further step in defiance of the resolution of the Council of Governors. I urge the committee and the CoG to resolve that question, so I beg to decline to move beyond the appearance and taking of oath.”

CoG remarks to Senators

Governors, through the CoG, have accused the Senate of harassment and overreach, arguing that some committee appearances have been turned into political showdowns rather than accountability forums.

Senators, however, insist that their oversight role is anchored in the Constitution and is critical in ensuring prudent use of public resources.

Responding to Orengo’s stance, Kajwang’ said the committee would consider adjournment but emphasised that compliance with Senate summons is not optional.

“If the governor finds himself in a situation where he is not ready to proceed, then I advise that we adjourn the meeting and consult on the way forward,” Kajwang said.

“When the Senate summons you, it is not an invitation to a birthday celebration that you can accept or deny. It is a constitutional obligation, and we hope other governors will do so. We cannot build a society where the law is not upheld.”