Kenya’s Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua faces a critical moment as the Senate prepares to vote on his impeachment, following an intense two-day trial.
The impeachment process, sparked by 11 charges ranging from corruption to ethnic divisiveness, could see Gachagua ousted from office if two-thirds of the Senate vote against him.
Gachagua, known as “Riggy G,” has strongly denied all accusations, calling them “nonsensical allegations” and politically motivated. The impeachment process follows a historic vote in the National Assembly, where 282 out of 349 MPs overwhelmingly supported his removal. The embattled leader claims he is being sidelined and treated unfairly, accusing his political rivals of deceit and betrayal.
If the Senate upholds the impeachment, Gachagua would become the first Kenyan Deputy President removed from office under the 2010 constitution. Despite the gravity of the charges, no criminal case has been brought against him, and Gachagua has vowed to fight the decision in court should the impeachment proceed.
READ ALSO : Kenya’s Deputy President faces impeachment for corruption
Amid the political drama, names like Interior Minister Kithure Kindiki and Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi are being speculated as potential successors. Political tensions remain high, but Gachagua has urged his supporters to stay calm, emphasizing the need for peace no matter the outcome. “Let’s preach and maintain peace irrespective of the outcome. Kenya is our country,” he said.
Interestingly, President William Ruto has remained silent regarding the impeachment motion, which originated from a member of his ruling coalition. Gachagua has acknowledged that the motion would likely not have proceeded without Ruto’s tacit approval.
The impeachment saga has captivated local media, dominating discussions in public spaces and serving as a focal point in the nation’s political narrative. However, some Kenyans view the timing of this political drama as a diversion from pressing issues, including public dissatisfaction over the handling of protesters, a controversial takeover bid for Nairobi’s international airport, and the rocky implementation of a new health insurance system.
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