A resident of Nakuru County, engineer Evans Kimori, has petitioned the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to clarify the process of suspending the county government, citing what he describes as a prolonged leadership vacuum and neglect of critical services. In a formal letter submitted to the IEBC’s Nakuru office on 7 April 2025, Kimori asked for the number of registered voters and the minimum signatory threshold needed to trigger a suspension under Article 192 of the Constitution.
According to Kimori, the move to seek suspension stems from concerns including the extended absence of Susan Kihika, governor of Nakuru County, the closure of important medical facilities such as the War Memorial Hospital, and alleged harassment of youths by the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS). He also criticised the county assembly for failing to act on a petition submitted on 20 March 2025 requesting the governor’s appearance before the Assembly to account for her absence.
Kimori has announced intentions to organise citizens’ barazas and collect signatures within the next two months ahead of seeking presidential action to suspend the county government and call fresh elections.
The petition has drawn mixed reactions across Nakuru County. Some civic groups and opposition figures have expressed support, viewing the action as a legitimate push for accountability in the devolved system. Meanwhile, supporters of the county leadership contend that the governor’s absence is linked to maternity leave and reject claims of a governance collapse. Analysts warn that the case could test Kenya’s county-dissolution mechanisms for the first time in a major seat of county administration. Looking ahead, Kimori’s effort will hinge on the IEBC’s guidance and the collection of sufficient valid signatures. If thresholds are met and procedures followed, the matter may proceed to the President and then to the Senate for further action—potentially setting a precedent for holding county governments to stricter accountability standards.