By FLEVIAN GEOFFREY: Migori Governor Ochillo Ayacko has stressed on the Council of Governors’ (CoG) resolution to boycott the Senate County Public Accounts Committee (CPAC), labeling the oversight body as a hostile environment and calling for a radical shift toward virtual proceedings.

Speaking during a interview, Ayacko who serves as the Chair of the CoG Legal Committee defended his decision to skip summons, despite being featured on CPAC’s “list of shame.”

He insisted that governors would only return to the table once certain “toxic” senators are removed from the committee and specific procedural recommendations are met.

Ayacko criticized the current physical summoning process in Nairobi as archaic and prone to theatrical confrontation.

Citing recent friction between senators and Samburu Governor Lati Lelelit, Ayacko accused some lawmakers of overstepping their bounds.

“We cannot allow some senators to heckle us like toddlers,” Ayacko stated.

“Since the Senate claims to have powers equivalent to the High Court under Article 125, they should adopt virtual hearings as the Judiciary has. In this 21st century, physical appearance should be a thing of the past.”

He noted that while governors are happy to appear before other Senate committees, CPAC’s current conduct has turned oversight into a “war.”

On the other hand, Ayacko took a swipe at local leaders he believes are prematurely eyeing the gubernatorial seat.

Without naming them directly, his remarks appeared aimed at Suna West MP Peter Francis Masara and Uriri lawmaker Mark Nyamita.
“Leadership cannot be taken through war and insults,” Ayacko cautioned.

“Focus on development, it is not yet time for politics. That time will come.”
He further turned on Migori Senator Eddy Oketch, whom he labeled an “absentee leader.”

Ayacko claimed the Senator is out of touch with the ground reality, alleging that Oketch only visits the county via helicopter without touring the wards to see ongoing projects.