CNN journalist Larry Madowo has reignited debate on political accountability after questioning whether Kibra Member of Parliament Peter Orero should also face scrutiny over a recent reckless driving incident involving his official vehicle.
Taking to his X account , Madowo revealed that the MP’s driver, George Oduor, had been fined KSh100,000 after pleading guilty to obstruction and dangerous overtaking. However, it was Madowo’s follow-up remarks that stirred conversation across Kenya’s online space.
“Did he do that without permission from his boss Peter Orero who was next to him?” Madowo wrote. “The MP was the first to dare me to take it to Ruto, not the driver.”
The journalist’s post quickly went viral, with many Kenyans weighing in on whether the MP should bear responsibility since he was allegedly present during the incident.
The Viral Video That Sparked the Case
The controversy began when a video recorded and shared by Madowo captured a government vehicle, reportedly assigned to MP Orero, driving recklessly along a busy Nairobi road. The Toyota Prado, bearing official registration plates, was seen overtaking dangerously and obstructing other motorists.
The footage spread rapidly on social media, drawing outrage and calls for action from citizens who accused public officials of misusing state vehicles and flouting traffic laws with impunity.
Authorities later confirmed that the driver in the video was George Oduor, who was subsequently arrested and charged.
The Court Outcome
Oduor appeared before the Milimani Law Courts on October 13, 2025, where he pleaded guilty to the two traffic offences.
The court imposed a KSh100,000 fine after he admitted to obstruction and dangerous overtaking, bringing temporary closure to the viral incident.
However, the court proceedings did not address the question of whether MP Orero was present in the vehicle or had instructed the driver a detail that has since become the centre of public debate following Madowo’s remarks.
Kenyans Demand Accountability
Madowo’s tweet reignited discussions on leadership ethics and accountability, especially regarding the behaviour of public servants and their aides. Many Kenyans expressed frustration that the MP himself had not been questioned, arguing that subordinates often take the fall for the misdeeds of their superiors.
Others praised Madowo for using his platform to call out impunity and misuse of government privileges. Some urged investigative authorities to probe further and establish whether the lawmaker was indeed complicit in the incident.
Broader Implications
The saga highlights ongoing concerns about road discipline and the misuse of public vehicles in Kenya.
It also underscores a growing culture of digital accountability, where viral videos and social media platforms now play a major role in exposing misconduct by those in power.
As one of Kenya’s most prominent journalists, Madowo’s voice amplified what many Kenyans already feel that true accountability must extend beyond drivers and aides to the leaders themselves.
by judy mutinda
