Former Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mithika Linturi has claimed that KSh100 million was mobilised to influence the Senate proceedings that led to the removal of former Meru Governor Kawira Mwangaza.
Speaking during an interview on Weru TV, Linturi alleged that he personally reached out to allies, including Members of Parliament, to raise funds aimed at ensuring Mwangaza’s impeachment was upheld.
“I called friends, my friends, MPs, all of them, and raised money: KSh100 million,” Linturi said during the televised interview.
He further claimed that lawmakers are frequently influenced by financial inducements when making critical decisions, linking his remarks to previous comments by President William Ruto about corruption within Parliament.
“Let me ask you, you heard Ruto say these MPs ni wakora. They are always paid money. They took money to impeach Gachagua. So even we gave out the money to be taken to the Senate,” Linturi stated.
According to the former CS, Parliament operates in a manner where outcomes can be swayed by financial contributions, arguing that decisions are often determined by the “highest bidder.”
“I’m telling you that that Parliament is compromised. It’s for the highest bidder. Even if you have some kind of case there, you will be asked to give something. And we decided if it’s money which might cause this thing to continue, let’s contribute. And I thank those people who came out,” he added.
Mwangaza was impeached after a prolonged political standoff in Meru County, following accusations levelled against her by Members of the County Assembly. The Senate later upheld her removal after considering the charges presented.
Linturi’s assertions, made on live television, have introduced fresh controversy surrounding the integrity of the impeachment process.
The allegations are likely to intensify scrutiny over accountability standards within Kenya’s legislative institutions.