On Wednesday, August 20, 2025, National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah found himself at the center of political controversy following the circulation of a viral video suggesting he had threatened President William Ruto with impeachment.
The clip, which was widely shared across social media platforms, captured the Kikuyu legislator reminding Members of Parliament that they hold constitutional powers to oversight the Executive and Judiciary.
In his remarks, Ichung’wah stressed that MPs could not be removed by the Executive, a statement many Kenyans interpreted as a veiled warning directed at the president.
The uproar emerged after parliament debated corruption allegations against legislators, a matter that had attracted President Ruto’s direct criticism.
In response to the online storm, Ichung’wah issued a clarification through his Facebook page, denying any intention to threaten the president.
He emphasized his loyalty to Ruto, describing him as both the head of state and team leader of the United Democratic Alliance (UDA).
According to Ichung’wah, parliament’s powers were enshrined in the constitution, and his statement merely highlighted the independence of the legislature in executing oversight duties.
Despite this clarification, backlash intensified as critics accused him of doublespeak and dishonesty. Many Kenyans pointed to the viral video as evidence contradicting his denial.
Social media reactions were unforgiving, with commentators urging the Majority Leader to own up to his words.
Eventually, Ichung’wah restricted comments on his post after facing a flood of critical responses.
Meanwhile, the broader political context deepened the tension. Just a day before, President Ruto had launched a new Multi-Agency Team (MAT) to spearhead anti-corruption investigations.
However, the High Court swiftly suspended its operations, ruling that its formation was unconstitutional following a petition by civil activists.
The timing of Ichung’wah’s remarks, therefore, appeared to many as a challenge to the president’s anti-graft efforts.
The unfolding events underscore the delicate balance between Kenya’s Executive and Legislature. While Ichung’wah insists his comments were misinterpreted, the backlash reveals the extent of public scrutiny on parliamentary leaders.
The incident highlights how political statements, once amplified online, can quickly escalate into national debates, forcing leaders into damage-control mode.
By Creatorhub