Kenya: Embu Governor Martin Wambora Removed From Office

The High Court ruled in favour of Embu Governor Martin Wambora’s removal from office on Thursday.

Justices Richard Mwongo, George Odunga and Weldon Korir found that due process for Wambora’s removal was followed to the latter.

“We find no reason for disturbing the reason of the senate,” they ruled.

“The resolution of the County Assembly of Embu dated April 29, 2014, and the resolution of the Senate upholding the impeachment charge of Governor Martin Wambora shall stand.”

Wambora was given 14 days to appeal the ruling.

The judges dismissed an allegation that the public was not involved in the governor’s impeachment.

They said they were satisfied with how the matter was handled.

Wambora’s removal comes after a three-judge bench presiding over the matter declined to overturn the Senate’s impeachment decision.

The county assembly resolved to oust him twice before, on February 14 and later on May 13, Justice Mwongo reinstating him on May 15, 2014.

Wambora was accused of contravening the County Government Act by appointing public servants without the assembly’s approval.

He was also accused of flouting procurement rules in the purchase of Sh35 million maize seeds that never germinated.

He is also said to have procured vehicles and authorised the renovation of Embu Stadium at a cost of Sh50 million, up from Sh8 million.

Wambora is the first public officer to be removed through impeachment.

Source