In the motion submitted to the Senate, Cherargei is urging lawmakers to review and potentially revoke, reallocate, or vary the budgetary provisions allocated to Kenyatta as a retired Head of State.
The move has sparked intense debate across the political divide, with supporters framing it as a necessary step toward fiscal accountability, while critics warn it could set a dangerous precedent.
Kenya’s law provides generous retirement packages to former presidents, including monthly pensions, security, office staffing, and other state-funded privileges.
Cherargei, however, argues that such benefits should not be automatic or immune from review, particularly in cases where a retired leader remains actively engaged in political affairs.
Although the senator did not explicitly accuse Kenyatta of wrongdoing, his motion appears to be politically charged, coming amid rising tensions between factions allied to President William Ruto and those perceived to be aligned with the former president.
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In recent months, Kenyatta has maintained a visible presence in regional and continental affairs, occasionally drawing criticism from government supporters who question the extent of his public engagements.
Cherargei contends that Parliament has the constitutional authority to reassess public spending, including allocations to retired leaders, especially at a time when the country is grappling with economic constraints and competing budgetary priorities.
He argues that funds currently directed toward former presidents could be better utilized in critical sectors such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure.
However, legal experts caution that any attempt to alter retirement benefits for a former president could face constitutional hurdles.
The benefits are enshrined in law to guarantee dignity and security for past holders of the highest office, shielding them from political retaliation and ensuring stability in governance transitions.
Allies of Kenyatta have already dismissed the motion as politically motivated, accusing Cherargei of attempting to settle scores through legislative means.
They argue that targeting a former head of state undermines institutional respect and could discourage peaceful transfers of power in the future.
The Senate is expected to debate the motion in the coming days, with its outcome likely to have far-reaching implications not only for Kenyatta but also for how Kenya treats its former leaders.
As the debate intensifies, the motion has ignited a broader national conversation about accountability, public expenditure, and the role of retired presidents in active political life.
