Simba Arati Tells Off MPs Over Impeachment Threats

Kisii County Governor Simba Arati.
Kisii County Governor Simba Arati.
Photo/Simba Arati

Kisii Governor Simba Arati told off members of Parliament from his backyard over threats to oust him over his relationship with President William Ruto.

Speaking to the press on Saturday, December 31, Arati made it clear that he would not be cowed by MPs, and asked them to stick to their mandate.

He added that the county assembly and the senate are the only organs charged with keeping tabs on governors.

President William Ruto welcoming Kisii Governor Simba Arati and UK Health Delegation at State House on November 30, 2022
President William Ruto welcoming Kisii Governor Simba Arati and UK Health Delegation at State House on November 30, 2022
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Simba Arati

"It is ridiculous when I see some of them say 'we have given you two months and if you do not perform'. What will they do? Their job is cut out clearly in the constitution," Arati clapped back.

The first-time governor explained that his new role requires him to work with the national government and he would not self-sabotage to appease a few individuals.

"Our relationship with the president is vertical and the courts pronounced themselves on the elections. Ruto is the president and we have no option.

"Those who felt very bad to see me with the president cannot wish this relationship away. But let it be clear, Raila Odinga remains my party leader in Azimio," he reiterated.

Arati maintained that he has a cordial relationship with the senator and the majority of elected leaders in ODM and Azimio at large. 

However, he claimed that a few leaders were being incited against him, maintaining that he would not pay much attention to them.

Arati added that he would remain focused on delivering to the people of Kisii who entrusted him with the leadership of the county even if it meant working with Ruto.

The former MP is among county chiefs from Nyanza including Kisumu's Anyang' Nyong'o and Siaya counterpart James Orengo who vowed to work with the state.

Nyong'o and Orengo maintained that they are still firmly in Azimio. Notably, Homa Bay governor Gladys Wanga admitted that she has never met Ruto but they enjoy a cordial relationship.

Kisumu Governor Anyang' Nyong'o meeting President William Ruto at State House on December 7, 2022
Kisumu Governor Anyang' Nyong'o meeting President William Ruto at State House on December 7, 2022
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Anyang' Nyong'o