Governor Barchok and Priest Who Sought His Impeachment Share Stage

By Kimagata Maridany.

Bomet, Kenya - Bomet Governor Prof. Hillary Barchok and Ndaraweta Parish Priest Rev. Ambrose Kimutai shared a public platform for the first time since the priest petitioned the County Assembly to impeach the governor.

Speaking during a funeral service in Teganda, Ndaraweta Ward, Rev. Kimutai called on leaders to prioritize service delivery and uphold transparency for the sake of future generations.

“We urge leaders to prioritize the needs of the electorate to avoid public outcry,” said Rev. Kimutai, who presided over the burial of former Kipsigis County Council Chairman, Cllr John Ngerechi.

The priest emphasized that his push for accountability was not personal or politically motivated, but intended for the good of Bomet residents.

“I petitioned the assembly in good faith, not out of malice. I have no political ambitions. I only seek accountability from our leaders,” he said, directly addressing Governor Barchok. “Let us work together so we can identify weaknesses and steer the county towards development.”

In a gesture of reconciliation and openness, Governor Barchok welcomed constructive criticism of his administration and lauded Rev. Kimutai for his continued advocacy for transparency.

“I respect you as a senior clergyman who has long fought for accountability. I know your intentions are in good faith and not politically driven,” said Barchok. “Please continue guiding us in conducting oversight objectively and without bias, so we can progress without unnecessary conflicts.”

Rev. Kimutai had earlier petitioned the County Assembly to impeach Prof. Barchok following his arrest by the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) over the alleged misappropriation of Sh1.6 billion.

Appearing before the Assembly's Petitions Committee, the priest urged Members of the County Assembly (MCAs) to take their oversight role seriously and hold the executive accountable. He further warned that he would push for the dissolution of the County Government if the MCAs failed to act, accusing them of colluding with the executive at the expense of service delivery.