A female student at Kabianga University, Maureen Chepkirui, has filed a lawsuit against Kericho Governor Erick Mutai, accusing him of child neglect. According to Chepkirui, the governor sired a child with her after they were romantically involved. The fourth-year student claims that Mutai has abdicated his parental responsibilities, leaving her to provide for the one-year-old child alone.
Chepkirui is seeking child support of Sh200,000 per month to take care of the minor. She has also asked the court to compel the governor to live up to his parental responsibilities. The suit extends beyond child support, as Chepkirui seeks to have the child's birth certificate and details capture the minor's relationship with the county boss. She accused Mutai of refusing to facilitate the registration of the child's birth certificate, citing his failure to provide his national identity card needed for the process.
The lawsuit comes at a time when Governor Mutai is fighting an epic political battle for his re-election. Mutai, who won his first term in 2022, has had a tumultuous political career, surviving two impeachment attempts. The Members of the County Assembly voted to impeach him on both occasions, but the Senate saved him from an early exit.
Governor Mutai's relationship with his deputy, Fred Kirui, recently ended, with Mutai publicly announcing the end of their partnership. Mutai urged Kirui to seek another partner in the 2027 election, marking the end of a union that propelled both of them to the helm of Kericho County. The governor has since settled on his Finance CECM Jackson Rop as his preferred running mate.
The child support suit adds another layer to Mutai's woes, as he faces increased pressure to address the allegations. Chepkirui's lawsuit has sparked a heated debate about the governor's personal life and his ability to lead the county. The case is set to draw significant attention in the coming weeks.
Governor Mutai's office has not publicly commented on the lawsuit, but sources close to the governor indicate that he will contest the allegations. The case is expected to be heard in court soon, with many Kenyans watching closely to see how the situation unfolds. The governor's re-election bid may be impacted by the allegations, adding an extra layer of complexity to the already heated campaign.
The lawsuit highlights the challenges faced by many single mothers in Kenya, who often struggle to access child support from absent fathers. Chepkirui's case has sparked a national conversation about the need for greater accountability and support for single mothers.
Key points
- The student is seeking Sh200,000 monthly in child support from Governor Mutai.
- Governor Mutai has survived two impeachment attempts amid his political battles.
- The lawsuit comes as Governor Mutai faces an epic political battle for his re-election.
