Impeachment Looms for Kenya’s Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua
By The Public Lens
Kenya’s National Assembly is set to vote on the impeachment of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, following allegations of corruption and undermining the government.
Gachagua has vehemently denied the allegations, stating in a televised speech, “I am innocent of all these charges.” He also emphasized his determination to defend himself, saying, “I have no intention whatsoever to resign from this job. I will fight to the end.”
The impeachment process was initiated on October 1, with an overwhelming 291 MPs signing up to the motion, far exceeding the required 117.
For the impeachment to succeed, the National Assembly must vote by more than two-thirds, after which the Senate will be required to uphold the motion by the same margin.
The MPs have listed 11 grounds for impeachment, including accusations of amassing unexplained wealth and promoting ethnic divisions.
Gachagua’s alliance with President William Ruto during the 2022 election secured crucial votes from the Mount Kenya region, but reports suggest a falling out between the two leaders.
Ruto’s recent cabinet reshuffle and alliance with opposition leader Raila Odinga have further fueled tensions.
Gachagua faces accusations of accumulating 5.2 billion shillings ($40m) during his tenure as deputy president, despite his reported annual salary of $93,000.
He attributes his wealth to family business dealings in real estate, hospitality, and construction.
If impeached, Gachagua would be the first deputy president to be removed since the introduction of the revised 2010 constitution.
The outcome of the impeachment vote will have significant implications for Kenya’s political landscape, potentially shifting alliances and influencing the 2027 general elections.
