In July 2026, Johnstone 'Junet' Mohamed publicly alleged that money changed hands among Members of Parliament during the 2024 impeachment of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, naming Senate Majority Leader Aaron Cheruiyot as the "accounting officer" for these transactions.

Junet’s initial remarks suggested a serious breach of parliamentary integrity, implying that MPs were financially incentivized to support Gachagua’s removal. He even appeared to advise recipients of such funds to invest in improved housing, reinforcing the impression of illicit payments.

Reversal of Position

However, weeks later, Junet altered his narrative during a televised interview, denying that he personally received any money and framing his earlier comments as references to political lobbying rather than direct payments.

This shift has raised questions about the true nature of Junet’s original claims. If he was referring merely to lobbying efforts, his description of funds moving through Parliament and the identification of Cheruiyot as an "accounting officer" remain unexplained. Conversely, if payments were involved, his retreat from the accusation under scrutiny invites skepticism.

Context of the Gachagua Impeachment

The impeachment of Rigathi Gachagua in October 2024 was a landmark event, with the National Assembly passing the motion and the Senate upholding it. Gachagua contested the process legally, and while the High Court in June 2026 found some procedural irregularities, it ultimately upheld the impeachment.

Given the gravity of the impeachment, allegations of bribery among MPs carry significant public interest and demand thorough clarification.

Implications for Political Leadership

Kenyans increasingly expect their leaders to maintain consistency and accountability, especially when making serious accusations. Junet’s contradictory statements underscore the challenge politicians face in upholding credibility under pressure.

The key issue is not whether Junet personally benefited financially but whether payments to MPs influenced the impeachment vote. If such payments occurred, Junet should provide evidence; if not, he should unequivocally deny the claims.

Furthermore, the involvement of Aaron Cheruiyot, publicly named by Junet, warrants transparent investigation rather than being dismissed as political rhetoric.

What Voters Should Consider

  • Consistency and integrity in political statements are crucial ahead of the 2027 General Election.
  • Leaders must demonstrate courage by standing by their claims or withdrawing them with clear explanations.
  • The public has a right to demand clarity on matters involving parliamentary processes and public funds.

Ultimately, Junet Mohamed’s u-turn on the Gachagua impeachment allegations highlights broader concerns about political accountability in Kenya. As the election approaches, voters will likely weigh not only politicians’ promises but also their willingness to defend their words under scrutiny.