Dr. Erick Kipkoech Mutai’s journey from a childhood plagued by jiggers in rural Kenya to the governor’s office in Kericho County represents one of the most remarkable political ascents in recent Kenyan history. Born into poverty and orphaned at a young age, Erick Mutai overcame tremendous obstacles through education and determination, only to face his greatest challenge yet, a high-stakes impeachment battle that threatens to end his political career. This biography examines the multifaceted life of this controversial figure, from his humble beginnings to his ongoing struggle for political survival.
Early Life & Family
Born on 28 December 1983, Erick Kipkoech Mutai is a Kenyan politician who currently serves as the Governor of Kericho County. At 41 years old, he has built a public profile anchored in education and governance.
While details about his siblings aren’t widely publicized, official sources portray Mutai as a “responsible family man” blessed with two children, living happily with them and, presumably, his spouse.
Education
Mutai’s academic journey began at Rugut Primary School and continued at Litein High School. He earned a Bachelor of Education (Arts) specializing in History and Government from Maseno University.
He later pursued a Master’s degree in Literature and Communication from the University of Kabianga in 2014. He completed a Ph.D. in Comparative Politics from the University of Nairobi, focusing on governance and political systems.
Professional & Political Career
Erick Mutai started his career in education as a graduate teacher at Kapkarin Secondary School from 2009 to 2011. He then moved into academia as a lecturer at Embu University until resigning in 2022 to pursue county leadership.
Additionally, he served as director of in-service training at Kipsigis Teachers College and held positions on various school boards.
In August 2022, he was elected the 2nd Governor of Kericho County, succeeding Prof. Paul Kiprono Chepkwony, under the banner of the United Democratic Alliance (UDA).
Net Worth & Benefits
Precise net worth figures are not publicly disclosed. Nonetheless, as governor, Mutai receives a gross monthly salary of Ksh 990,000, broken down as follows:
- Basic salary: Ksh 574,200
- House allowance: Ksh 200,000
- Market adjustment: Ksh 196,000
Erick Mutai also receives substantial benefits, including:
- Official car or allowance (up to 3,000 cc engine)
- Medical coverage for himself, spouse, and up to four children (inpatient up to Ksh 10M; outpatient Ksh 300,000; maternity Ksh 150,000; dental & optical Ksh 75,000 each)
- Airtime allowance: up to Ksh 20,000/month
- Official residence, security, travel subsistence (SRC approved)
- Retirement gratuity of 31% of annual pensionable income or contributions to a pension scheme
- Group life insurance is worth three times annual pensionable earnings.
Impeachment Crisis: What’s the Story?
In a dramatic turn, the Kericho County Assembly impeached Governor Mutai on 15 August 2025, citing allegations of financial mismanagement, nepotistic appointments, and intimidation of county staff.
Key Allegations:
- Extortion of county officials: Former CEC Edna Tanui claimed she contributed Ksh 1.5 million from personal savings under pressure, and was later dismissed for refusing to continue such payments.
- Misappropriation of funds: Accusations include double retention payments (Ksh 8.4 million), unaccounted Ksh 9 million from the Londiani Accident Fund, and fictitious payments totaling Ksh 85 million to non-existent contractors.
- Ghost projects, inflated contracts, and unauthorized land use: Additional claims include overpricing of housing renovation (Ksh 2 million), establishing a dumping site on private land, and fraudulent projects.
Mutai’s Defence:
Mutai has vehemently denied all allegations, decrying the impeachment as a politically engineered power play. He accused the County Assembly Speaker of orchestrating the impeachment to clear the path for himself to assume office, alleging vote manipulation to reach the required two-thirds threshold.
Currently (as of late August 2025), the Senate is conducting impeachment hearings, with the defense challenging the integrity of electronic voting logs and raising procedural concerns.
Final Word
Governor Erick Mutai’s story is one of academic achievement and rapid political ascent disrupted by high-stakes controversy. From a lecturer shaping young minds to a governor navigating perilous impeachment proceedings, his journey reflects both ambition and the volatile nature of Kenyan county politics.
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