Narok, Kenya – Narok Senator Ledama Olekina has threatened to file an impeachment motion against Defence Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale over remarks the CS made during a public meeting that Olekina described as tribal. Speaking at a community forum on 18 August, Olekina said Duale’s comments – in which he asserted that no ethnic group is superior and accused unnamed leaders of attacking President William Ruto because of his community – were inappropriate for a senior government official.

Olekina argued that cabinet secretaries must remain neutral and avoid inflaming ethnic tensions. He accused Duale of sowing division by insinuating that critics of the government were driven by tribal bias. The senator said he would mobilise colleagues in the Senate to hold Duale accountable and insisted that public servants who breach the code of conduct should be removed from office. “We cannot allow a cabinet secretary to peddle tribal politics and then hide behind national unity,” Olekina told reporters.

Duale has defended his remarks, saying he was calling for unity and condemning leaders who constantly attack the President on tribal grounds. He maintained that he did not target any community and that his statements were taken out of context. Several politicians, including Public Service Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria, have weighed in on the dispute, calling on leaders to focus on development and avoid divisive rhetoric.

Political analysts say the spat illustrates the delicate balance the government must strike in a country where ethnic identity remains a potent force. While Kenya’s constitution enshrines equality of communities, politicians continue to mobilise along ethnic lines. An impeachment motion would require support from a majority of senators and could deepen rifts within the ruling coalition.

The Senate is currently on recess, and it is unclear whether Olekina will proceed with his plan. However, the episode has reignited debate over freedom of speech versus responsibility in public office. Observers hope the controversy will prompt frank discussions about how to promote cohesion in Kenya’s diverse society.