Inside Details: Five Reasons Why MPs Want To Impeach DP Gachagua

NAIROBI, Kenya – A motion to impeach Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has been submitted to the National Assembly, citing serious violations of the Constitution and misconduct in office.

According to the motion, which invokes Articles 145 and 150 of the Constitution, Gachagua faces five key accusations that have sparked intense political debate.

First, the Deputy President is accused of violating Article 10 of the Constitution, which upholds national values and principles of governance.

His public utterances have been deemed inciteful, reckless, and inflammatory, with allegations that they could fuel ethnic tensions and balkanization.

Critics argue that such statements contradict his responsibility to promote unity and peace.

Second, Gachagua is charged with failing in his duties as the principal assistant to the President, in violation of Articles 147, 148, 174, 186, and 189 of the Constitution.

His conduct is said to undermine his office and responsibilities, raising concerns about his commitment to his constitutional role.

Third, allegations of corruption have surfaced, accusing Gachagua of unlawfully acquiring assets valued at over Ksh 5.7 billion—far exceeding his official income.

These assets include properties such as Tree Tops Hotel, Outspan Hotel, Olive Gardens Hotel, and Vipingo Beach Resort, reportedly acquired through family members.

Fourth, the motion claims that Gachagua has violated national and international laws, including the National Cohesion and Integration Act, the Anti-Corruption and Economic Crimes Act, the Proceeds of Crime and Anti-Money Laundering Act, the Penal Code, and the Leadership and Integrity Act.

His alleged actions, according to the motion, breach legal and ethical standards.

Gachagua is also accused of gross misconduct. The Deputy President allegedly attacked High Court judge Esther Maina and the Director General of the National Intelligence Service, disregarding his oath of office.

Further, he is accused of insubordination by publicly contradicting President William Ruto’s policy positions and cabinet pronouncements.

The motion is now under review by the Clerk of the National Assembly, who will determine its admissibility.

For the impeachment process to move forward, it must first gain the support of at least one-third of MPs, or 117 members.

If successful in the National Assembly, the motion will proceed to the Senate, where it requires the backing of two-thirds of Senators for Gachagua’s removal from office.

The impeachment motion has already sparked widespread discussion, with proponents pointing to the gravity of the accusations, while Gachagua’s allies dismiss the claims as politically motivated.