For years, Kenyans have heard claims of bribery and vote-buying in Parliament. Many of those claims remained unproven. However, recent remarks by lawmakers have revived the debate over the integrity of the country’s legislative process.
Fresh Claims Revive Debate
The latest controversy began after Suna East MP and National Assembly Minority Leader Junet Mohamed spoke at a political rally in Kakamega. He claimed money changed hands during the October 2024 impeachment of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. He also alleged that a senior senator managed the distribution of the funds.
Lang’ata MP Felix Odiwuor, also known as Jalang’o, later echoed the claims. Speaking on a podcast, he said lawmakers received payments during the impeachment process. However, he did not provide further details.
Makueni Senator Dan Maanzo also made similar allegations. He claimed people linked to the government offered him between KSh4 million and KSh10 million to support Gachagua’s impeachment. He added that he received threats after rejecting the offer. However, he did not identify those involved.
Court Case Keeps Issue Alive
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has repeatedly claimed that lawmakers accepted money during the impeachment process.
In June 2026, the High Court upheld the impeachment. However, the court awarded Gachagua KSh50 million after finding that the Senate violated some of his constitutional rights. His lawyers now want the court to consider the recent statements by lawmakers.
Similar Claims Have Surfaced Before
These allegations are not new.
During the Finance Bill 2024 debate, Juja MP George Koimburi claimed lawmakers received KSh2 million each to support the bill. He later withdrew the statement and admitted he had no evidence.
In 2025, President William Ruto claimed that some parliamentary committees demanded bribes from businesses seeking favourable laws. His remarks raised fresh concerns about corruption in Parliament.
Later, similar claims emerged over the Anti-Money Laundering Bill passed in 2026. Some people alleged lawmakers received payments to support the bill. However, committee members denied the accusations.
Questions Over Parliament’s Independence
The repeated allegations have raised concerns about Parliament’s independence.
The Constitution gives Parliament the duty to oversee the Executive and represent the people. However, critics argue that bribery weakens that role. They say public trust falls when money influences key decisions.
Many Kenyans now question whether lawmakers make decisions independently. Others wonder whether political or financial interests shape major votes.
Calls for Investigations
The latest claims have increased pressure on investigators.
Many people want the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) to examine the allegations.
Legal experts also say public officials should report any bribery attempts to investigators. They argue Parliament should investigate the claims instead of dismissing them.
Analysts have also called for stricter political financing laws. They want greater transparency in lobbying and stronger disclosure rules for elected leaders.
Public Confidence Under Pressure
The latest allegations have placed Parliament under renewed public scrutiny.
Whether investigators act or not, the claims have sparked fresh debate about accountability and transparency.
As Kenya moves closer to the 2027 General Election, many voters will watch closely. They want to see whether the allegations lead to action or disappear without consequences.
