The Council of Governors has strongly condemned the assault on Samburu County Governor Lelelit Lati by members of the Senate, describing the incident as a blatant violation of constitutional rights and a threat to the rule of law.
In a statement released on Thursday, the Council termed the attack “shocking and unacceptable,” saying it demeans the dignity of the Governor’s office and strikes at “the very heart of constitutionalism and the rule of law.”
“This demonstration of hooliganism not only demeans the dignity of the public office of the Governor as a Head of Government, but strikes at the very heart of constitutionalism and the rule of law,” the statement read.
The Council emphasized that the Constitution guarantees human dignity, respect, and the peaceful conduct of public affairs as non-negotiable principles.
CoG criticized the Senate for resorting to violence, harassment, and intimidation rather than using lawful channels to address concerns.
“It is disheartening that this very House has resorted to witch-hunting, harassment, violence and intimidation. We explicitly condemn these acts as they constitute conduct that does not befit the office of a Senator and the high repute expected of them,” the statement said.
The Council urged the Speaker of the Senate to condemn the Senators involved and to expedite mechanisms for resolving the issues raised by CoG against certain members of the County Public Accounts Committee.
They also warned that the assault constitutes a criminal offence and vowed that legal action would be pursued against those responsible.
“At a time when intergovernmental relations demand dialogue and mutual respect, resorting to physical aggression reflects a dangerous erosion of democratic norms and a betrayal of the Kenyan people's trust,” the statement noted.
The Council reminded all state actors that leadership must adhere to principles of accountability, restraint, and human rights, calling for immediate action to uphold justice and safeguard constitutional order.
“Leadership is bound by the tenets of accountability, restraint and adherence to human rights, and calls for immediate action to uphold justice, safeguard constitutional order and restore integrity within our institutions,” the statement added.
CoG’s statement underscores the importance of maintaining respect and integrity in intergovernmental relations, warning that violence against elected leaders undermines democratic norms and threatens the trust of the Kenyan people in public institutions.
Council of Governors chairperson Ahmed Abdullahi reiterated the call for accountability and legal recourse against the perpetrators.
