Kenyan senators are demanding the immediate arrest of Samburu Governor Jonathan Lati Lelelit for repeatedly defying summons from the Senate County Public Accounts Committee (CPAC).
The governor has ignored invitations four times since last year to address audit queries on the management of billions in county funds for the 2023/2024 financial year, prompting accusations of contempt of Parliament.
CPAC, chaired by Homa Bay Senator Moses Kajwang’, initially fined Lelelit Ksh 500,000 after he skipped a December 4, 2025, appearance.
When he failed again, the committee issued an arrest warrant, directing Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja to apprehend and produce him.
However, Kanja claimed his team could not locate the governor, a response that drew sharp criticism.
Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna blasted the excuse, questioning, “How can the IG say he cannot find him? How can the police say they cannot locate a governor who is sitting at State House?” Sifuna referenced Lelelit’s attendance at a United Democratic Alliance (UDA) National Governing Council meeting at State House, chaired by President William Ruto, as evidence of his visibility.
Samburu Senator Ltumbesi Lelegwe echoed the frustration, urging a missing person report and accusing Lelelit of deliberate evasion.
The committee has now summoned Kanja to appear within seven days to explain his inaction, warning of potential collusion.
This case echoes the conviction of former Samburu Governor Moses Lenolkulal on corruption charges, highlighting ongoing accountability challenges in devolved governance.
As pressure mounts, observers see it as a test of parliamentary authority and the rule of law in Kenya.
Author: Bashirjuma
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