Parliament Sittings Stall as MPs Protest Ruto’s Explosive Bribery Allegations
All Committees Grind to a Halt
On Tuesday, August 19, National Assembly committee rooms remained locked. Deserted hallways symbolized lawmakers’ defiance.
For the first time in months, not a single committee meeting of the National Assembly kicked off. Even oversight hearings froze.
Only Senate committees sat, and even then, senators participated under protest.
Ruto’s Allegations Ignite Firestorm
The protest erupted after President Ruto alleged MPs demanded Ksh10 million to pass the Anti-Money Laundering Bill.
He further claimed a governor had offered Ksh150 million to bribe senators into manipulating their findings.
His explosive remarks, made on Monday, August 18, sparked fury among legislators across political divides.
MPs Say Integrity Under Attack
Lawmakers accused the President of smearing Parliament’s reputation and endangering their lives.
Tetu MP Geoffrey Wandeto gave a fiery speech in the House.
“An allegation of bribery against a member, especially the figures being touted, makes us feel endangered even as we walk the streets,” he said.
“People imagine you have Sh10 million or Sh150 million. Others think you are the worst enemy of the people. I urge you, Mr Speaker, to defend the integrity of this House.”
His sentiments drew applause from colleagues who demanded that the President back his claims with hard evidence.
Pressure Mounts on Speakers
Meanwhile, Homa Bay Senator Moses Kajwang’ urged both Speakers—Moses Wetangula and Amason Kingi—to summon Ruto.
“The President must explain these allegations before both Houses. If there is evidence, let him table it,” Kajwang’ said.
His call adds fresh pressure on Parliament’s leadership to protect the institution’s credibility while avoiding further escalation.
Roots of the Showdown
The standoff comes just days after Ruto formed an 11-member Multi-Agency Team to spearhead his anti-corruption fight.
The task force, domiciled under the State Department of Justice, was unveiled shortly after he threatened to arrest MPs accused of extortion.
For now, the people’s work in Parliament stands still—paralyzed by mistrust, anger, and unanswered questions.
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Parliament Sittings Stall as MPs Protest Ruto’s Explosive Bribery Allegations
