Eldoret-based human rights activist Kipkorir Ngetich has strongly condemned Elgeyo Marakwet Governor Wisley Rotich over his alleged public verbal attack on his deputy, calling for urgent investigations and accountability from relevant government institutions.

Ngetich, speaking on behalf of the Centre for Human Rights and Democracy, described the incident as unfortunate and unacceptable, accusing the Governor of displaying arrogance and conduct that undermines the dignity of women holding public leadership positions.

In a strongly worded statement, the activist said the manner in which Rotich allegedly addressed his deputy in public raised serious questions about leadership ethics, respect for women and the standards expected of individuals entrusted with high public offices.

He argued that the Office of the Governor is a constitutional public institution that demands discipline, maturity, responsibility and respect for the rule of law, regardless of political disagreements or personal differences between leaders.

According to Ngetich, leaders occupying senior government positions should demonstrate restraint and uphold the dignity of their offices, particularly when dealing with colleagues and other public officials.

He further argued that publicly humiliating a female leader should not be treated as an ordinary political disagreement, saying such conduct risks undermining the broader efforts to promote gender equality and women's participation in leadership.

The activist also took issue with the Governor's alleged remarks boasting that he had more money than his deputy, questioning the context and implications of the statement.

Ngetich suggested that the remarks raised questions about financial accountability in Elgeyo Marakwet County, particularly in light of concerns he said had previously been raised by the Auditor-General regarding county expenditure in successive financial years.

He called for the relevant authorities to examine the matter and establish whether there are any accountability issues requiring further investigation.

However, the financial concerns raised by the activist remain allegations and questions that would require independent examination by the appropriate oversight institutions.

The Centre for Human Rights and Democracy maintained that public officials should not use their positions to intimidate, demean or publicly embarrass other leaders, insisting that accountability and respect for the law must apply equally to everyone.

Calls on Women to Speak Out

Ngetich also issued a strong appeal to women and girls in Elgeyo Marakwet County, urging them to stand up for their rights and demand respect in political and public leadership spaces.

He said the incident should trigger a broader conversation about the treatment of women in leadership and the need to create an environment where female leaders can discharge their responsibilities without intimidation or public humiliation.

In a political appeal ahead of the next general election, Ngetich challenged residents of Elgeyo Marakwet to consider electing a woman as Governor, arguing that the county has an opportunity to strengthen women's representation in its highest elective office.

He maintained that women and girls should have equal opportunities to participate in leadership and decision-making without being subjected to discrimination or disrespect.

The activist said the controversy should not only be viewed as a disagreement between two county leaders but also as an opportunity to reflect on the broader question of gender equality in public institutions.

Centre Plans Petitions to Key Institutions

The Centre for Human Rights and Democracy has announced plans to petition several national institutions, seeking their intervention over the incident.

Ngetich named the Senate, the National Police Service, the Council of Governors, the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) and the Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA-Kenya) among the institutions he wants to take up the matter.

He said the organisation expects the institutions to examine the circumstances surrounding the alleged incident and determine whether any laws, regulations or ethical standards governing public leadership were violated.

The activist particularly wants the Senate and other relevant oversight bodies to consider appropriate action, arguing that public leadership must be accompanied by responsibility and accountability.

He further called for Governor Rotich to be barred from seeking elective positions, arguing that leaders should face consequences when their conduct falls short of the standards expected of public office holders.

Such a restriction, however, would have to follow the applicable constitutional and legal procedures, with eligibility for elective office determined under the law.

Ngetich Invokes Nancy Baraza Case

In making his case for accountability, Ngetich drew comparisons with the controversy involving former Deputy Chief Justice Dr Nancy Baraza, arguing that the country should use the present matter to demonstrate that no public official is above scrutiny.

He maintained that the standards applied to public officials should be consistent, irrespective of their positions, political influence or financial standing.

According to the activist, the alleged treatment of the Deputy Governor should concern not only women in Elgeyo Marakwet but also women across Kenya, given the importance of dignity and respect in public leadership.

He further argued that the conduct of elected leaders has a direct influence on public confidence in government institutions and the country's commitment to gender equality.

The Centre for Human Rights and Democracy says it will pursue the matter through the relevant institutions and seek accountability over what it considers an unacceptable incident.

The controversy has also brought renewed attention to the working relationship between the Governor and Deputy Governor, as well as the importance of mutual respect and cooperation within county administrations.

As the matter draws public attention, the key questions will be whether the relevant institutions will receive and investigate the complaints, and whether the concerns raised will lead to any formal action.

Neither the activist's allegations nor his demands should be treated as established findings, and any determination of wrongdoing will depend on the evidence and applicable legal processes.