In a dramatic turn of events in Kenya’s political scene, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has been impeached by the Senate, despite his absence during the trial. Gachagua was supposed to defend himself against 11 charges but was hospitalized due to chest pains. His lawyer requested a postponement, but the Senate proceeded without him, indicating a strong resolve among senators to remove him from office.
The impeachment followed a decisive vote in the National Assembly, where a significant majority of MPs supported Gachagua’s removal. This situation has escalated tensions within the government, particularly following Gachagua’s rift with President William Ruto. Known for his influence in the Mount Kenya region, Gachagua described the impeachment as a “political lynching,” highlighting the high stakes involved in this conflict.
Kenya Faces Political Turmoil as Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua is Impeached Without His Defense
During the Senate trial, five charges against Gachagua were upheld, including inciting ethnic divisions and violating his oath of office. Achieving the required two-thirds majority, the Senate’s decision effectively removed Gachagua from his position. Although he was acquitted of six other charges, such as corruption and money laundering, the verdict bars him from holding any public office in the future and also strips him of any exit benefits.
This impeachment marks the culmination of ongoing struggles at the highest levels of government. The tensions came to a head in June when Gachagua criticized Ruto for his management of mass protests against unpopular tax increases. Following this incident, Ruto was compelled to reshuffle his cabinet, illustrating the fragility of political alliances in the current administration.
With Gachagua’s impeachment, speculation about his potential successors has begun, with four notable figures emerging as candidates. These include Murang’a County Governor Irungu Kang’ata, Kirinyaga County Governor Anne Waiguru, Interior Minister Kithure Kindiki, and Foreign Affairs Minister Musalia Mudavadi.
While Ruto has not yet commented on Gachagua’s removal, this significant event solidifies his control over the government and paves the way for future changes in leadership.
