NAIROBI, Kenya – In a potential political shake-up that could alter Kenya’s future, Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru is being tipped to become the country’s first female Deputy President.
As tensions mount within President William Ruto’s administration, reports suggest that Waiguru is being groomed to replace Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, who faces an imminent impeachment.
Sources close to the seat of power indicate that President Ruto is seriously considering Waiguru for the position, aiming to leverage her extensive government experience and broad appeal.
This move could not only make history but also signal a major shift in the country’s political dynamics, putting Waiguru just a heartbeat away from the presidency.
The President, who has previously hinted that his next Deputy would be female, may be looking to expedite this transition sooner than anticipated.
“Anne Waiguru is the right candidate to help balance the political scales, especially considering her experience and national appeal,” a senior State House official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said.
“She’s someone who has been at the heart of government operations before and can be a unifying factor.”
The Impeachment Drama: A Storm Brewing
Deputy President Gachagua’s woes have escalated over the past few weeks, with reports suggesting that over 200 Members of Parliament have already thrown their support behind an impeachment motion.
Sources say the motion could be tabled as early as next week.
The move is spearheaded by MPs who are, ironically, allied to President Ruto and who feel that Gachagua’s political style is no longer tenable.
“Gachagua has been accused of bullying and tribalism,” another high-ranking government official said.
“His hardline stance on several issues, including his alleged involvement in the June 25 Gen Z protests, has rubbed many the wrong way. The time has come for a change.”
Gachagua, however, is not going down without a fight. Reports indicate that he has already assembled a formidable legal team to challenge the impeachment if it proceeds.
His camp has dismissed the allegations against him as mere political maneuvering, aimed at discrediting his leadership and paving the way for a more palatable Deputy.
“This is all about power and influence. They want to replace him with someone they can control,” an ally of Gachagua confided.
“But we are ready. Let them bring the motion—we will fight it.”
Waiguru’s Rise: A Calculated Strategy
If Gachagua is ousted, Waiguru would be stepping into a role fraught with complexity.
She is no stranger to political intrigue, having served as Cabinet Secretary for Devolution before becoming the first female governor of Kirinyaga County.
Her tenure has not been without controversy, but her political resilience and ability to navigate turbulent waters have made her a formidable figure in Kenyan politics.
Her exit from Cabinet was controversial after she was accused of being involed in the multi-million shillings National Youth Service (NYS scandal during the tenure of President Uhuru Kenyatta.
Political analysts suggest that Waiguru’s appointment as Deputy President could serve multiple purposes for Ruto’s administration.
Not only would it quell dissent within the Mt. Kenya region—a critical support base for the President—but it could also help to win over female voters and neutralize the opposition.
“She has been vetted thoroughly and is seen as a stabilizing force,” said a political broker close to the President.
“Waiguru has managed to keep her county largely peaceful and has shown leadership even when under immense pressure.”
The Power Play: Crafting a New Political Reality
Behind the scenes, efforts are already being made to enhance Waiguru’s national appeal.
Ida Odinga, the wife of Kenya’s former Prime Minister Raila Odinga is among women leaders including governors who have endorsed Waiguru.
Several high-profile political operatives are reportedly working on a public relations campaign to position her as a leader who can transcend regional politics and unite the country.
This strategy is designed to counter Gachagua’s narrative, which has often been seen as divisive.
“They’re making her more visible, more relatable,” a source familiar with the strategy revealed.
“The goal is to make her look like someone who is not just from Mt. Kenya but someone who can be embraced across the nation.”
The timing of this move could not be more critical, with the President’s coalition facing internal rifts.
Waiguru’s elevation could provide the much-needed reset for Ruto’s government, helping to solidify his base while making inroads into regions traditionally opposed to his leadership after his truce with Odinga.
The Road Ahead: What Next for Gachagua?
For Deputy President Gachagua, the coming days could define his political career.
While his supporters remain defiant, there is an increasing sense that the political tide is turning against him.
Should the impeachment motion pass, it would not only signal the end of his tenure but an end of his political career.
“Kenyans are very intelligent people,” Gachagua said in a recent statement, dismissing the allegations against him as a scheme to tarnish his reputation.
“They know what the real problems in Kenya are. They surely know Rigathi Gachagua is not among them.”
As the political chess game unfolds, all eyes will be on State House, Parliament, and Waiguru herself.
If the stars align, she could soon be making history as Kenya’s first female Deputy President, a development that would not only reshape the nation’s political landscape but also mark a significant milestone in its journey toward gender equality in leadership.
