NAIROBI, Kenya- In a surprising and emotional turn of events, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has publicly asked for forgiveness from President William Ruto, just days before Parliament is set to debate his impeachment.
Once a trusted lieutenant in the Kenya Kwanza administration, Gachagua now faces a political storm that could see him ousted from office.
During a heartfelt church service at his official residence in Karen, Gachagua addressed President Ruto directly, acknowledging that in their two years of working together, mistakes may have been made.
“I want to say to my brother President William Ruto, if in our zeal to work, I have wronged you, please find it in your heart to forgive me,” said Gachagua.
His voice wavered as he expressed the gravity of the situation, adding, “This work is challenging, and in one way or another, we may have wronged somebody.”
In what seemed like a final attempt to mend fences, Gachagua also extended his apology to his wife, who has been a strong advocate for the boy child, asking the President to forgive her for any actions that may have caused discomfort.
“If my spouse, in her duties for the boy child, has wronged you in any way, find it in your heart to forgive her,” Gachagua said, his tone a mixture of vulnerability and regret.
The apology extended beyond his family, as Gachagua also sought forgiveness on behalf of Members of Parliament allied to him, acknowledging that some of their statements may have upset the President.
Gachagua’s plea comes at a critical moment, as the Deputy President’s position hangs in the balance.
On Tuesday, MPs will vote on a motion of impeachment that could bring an end to his political career.
With at least 233 MPs needed to move the process forward to the Senate, the stakes are higher than ever.
Sources say the impeachment process has the implicit support of President Ruto, signaling a significant shift in the relationship between the two leaders.
Among the witnesses expected to provide testimony against Gachagua are Secretary to the Cabinet Mercy Wanjau and Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja.
Kibwezi MP Mutuse Mwengi, the sponsor of the impeachment motion, is a member of the Maendeleo Chap Chap party, founded by Labour Cabinet Secretary Dr. Alfred Mutua.
Mutua is one of the key figures pushing for Gachagua’s removal.
For Gachagua, the days ahead will determine whether his political future can be salvaged.
If the impeachment motion garners enough support in Parliament and proceeds to the Senate, Gachagua could face removal from office.
Even if the Senate upholds the motion, the Deputy President has the option to challenge the decision in court, with the case potentially reaching the Supreme Court.
As Gachagua’s political survival hangs by a thread, his public apology has raised eyebrows across the political spectrum.
Whether this appeal for forgiveness will resonate with his colleagues and sway the outcome remains to be seen.
But one thing is clear — Gachagua’s fate now lies in the hands of those he once called allies, and the decision they make in the coming days will shape the future of Kenya’s political landscape.
