NAIROBI, Kenya — The Council of Governors (CoG) has formally written to Senate Speaker Amason Kingi, urging urgent discussions on the manner in which governors are summoned before Senate oversight committees. The move comes amid rising tensions over alleged harassment and intimidation during audit hearings.
In a letter dated February 9, 2026, CoG Chairman Ahmed Abdullahi highlighted that some Senate committees, particularly the County Public Accounts Committee (CPAC), have undermined the spirit of constitutional oversight.
To address these concerns, the Council has resolved that governors will boycott CPAC sessions until a structured dialogue with Senate leadership is held.
Similarly, regarding the Senate County Public Investment and Special Funds Committee, CoG said multiple annual appearances to review county investments in municipalities and hospitals are unsustainable. Governors will now appear only once per audit cycle to comprehensively address queries.
Abdullahi, speaking at a press briefing in Kilifi, accused some senators of turning oversight hearings into hostile political theatres, alleging governors are deliberately kept waiting for hours, subjected to intimidation, and pressured for partisan objectives.
He emphasised that governors remain committed to accountability but seek oversight conducted respectfully and effectively.
The CoG has urged Senate leadership to schedule an urgent meeting to establish a clear engagement framework between the two institutions. “Please accept the assurance of our highest esteem and consideration,” the letter concluded.
However, the senators have pushed back. CPAC Chair Moses Kajwang insisted that governors cannot evade scrutiny over the appropriation of public funds. He warned that oversight is not negotiable, asserting, “It is not an option, it is not a favour, it is a duty we have to the public. Whether we like you or not, we shall continue fighting for more resources to go to counties.”
The standoff sets the stage for potential high-level negotiations between the Senate and CoG, with both sides under pressure to protect institutional integrity while ensuring public resources are scrutinised.
