Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua of Kenya has been impeached by lawmakers for abuse of office. The impeachment motion, passed by more than two-thirds of the members of the National Assembly, accused Gachagua of corruption, insubordination, undermining the government, and engaging in divisive politics. Parliament Speaker Moses Wetang’ula announced the results of the vote, with 281 members in support of the motion, 44 against, and one abstention. Gachagua, who denied all charges, urged lawmakers to consider the issues raised before making a decision.
The impeachment motion will now go to the Senate, where it must be approved by at least two-thirds of senators. Gachagua would be the first deputy president to be removed from office through impeachment since the introduction of the process in Kenya’s revised 2010 constitution. The Senate will have 10 days to deal with the motion, including allowing Gachagua to cross-examine the evidence. The impeachment can be appealed through the courts, and Gachagua has filed a petition to halt the proceedings initiated by allies of President William Ruto, whom he supported in the 2022 elections.
Gachagua’s relationship with Ruto has soured in recent months, with reports of being sidelined and falling out with Ruto as political alliances shifted. Ruto’s decision to dismiss most of his cabinet and bring in members of the main opposition following protests against tax increases in June and July led to further tensions. Gachagua’s comments that voters for the coalition should have first claim on public sector jobs and development projects also caused outrage among Ruto’s allies. While Ruto has not publicly commented on the impeachment proceedings, the situation highlights the political divisions within the ruling coalition.
The accusations against Gachagua include amassing unexplained wealth and promoting ethnic divisions. During a news conference before the impeachment proceedings, Gachagua proclaimed his innocence and vowed to fight until the end. He urged lawmakers to search their conscience before voting, emphasizing his commitment to defending himself against the charges. The outcome of the Senate vote will determine the fate of Gachagua, who faces the possibility of being removed from office if the motion is passed.
Overall, the impeachment of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua in Kenya underscores the ongoing political turmoil and power struggles within the ruling coalition. The allegations of corruption, insubordination, and divisive politics against Gachagua have led to his impeachment by the National Assembly. The situation has raised questions about the stability of the government and the impact on the country’s political landscape. As the impeachment process moves to the Senate, the future of Gachagua and his relationship with President Ruto remains uncertain. Ultimately, the outcome of the Senate vote will determine whether Gachagua is removed from office, marking a significant development in Kenyan politics.
