The tense atmosphere in the Senate during the impeachment proceedings of Kericho Governor Erick Mutai momentarily gave way to drama and laughter when a witness attempted to testify in vernacular.
Kapkatet Ward MCA Amos Bii, one of the 18 ward representatives who swore affidavits distancing themselves from the impeachment motion, startled senators when he pleaded to deliver his testimony in his native tongue.
“I never voted. I’m an old man, and I can say the truth, yes. I can even take the Bible,” Bii declared confidently during cross-examination by Governor Mutai’s lawyer, Katwa Kigen.
Then, turning directly to Senate Speaker Veronica Maina, he made an unusual request:
“Honourable Speaker, may I request to speak in vernacular? I can give my people advice. Because raising a Bible in front of these senators and saying something that is not true you cannot stay longer.”
The plea triggered laughter across the chamber, but the Speaker quickly reminded him of the rules.
“I encourage you to speak in the parliamentary language because you represent the great people of your ward. I am sure business in Kericho County is transacted either in Kiswahili or in English. We don’t have an official translator right now,” she firmly responded.
But the 63-year-old MCA would not back down easily, insisting that younger leaders needed guidance best delivered in a language they understood. “I am an old man, and I know what a sin is. With your permission…” he began again.
At this point, lawyer Kigen attempted to intervene, suggesting that Bii proceed in Kiswahili. Yet Speaker Maina stood her ground, citing 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,” she said. “For now, because of time, would you like to use Kiswahili?”
Bii finally relented but not without one last comic twist. “May I use English?” he asked, sparking another round of laughter in the chamber.
The impeachment trial, which kicked off on Wednesday, is expected to conclude today, with senators set to decide whether the charges against Governor Mutai meet the constitutional threshold for removal from office.
