NAIROBI, Kenya- In a political showdown set for today at 2:30 pm, Members of Parliament (MPs) are poised to table a motion to oust Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
Majority Leader and Kikuyu MP, Kimani Ichung’wah, confirmed that the impeachment motion would be introduced on the House floor, marking a potential turning point in the country’s leadership.
The motion, which has already garnered 302 signatures, needs the backing of at least 233 MPs to proceed. Gachagua’s accusers allege multiple constitutional violations, and this move could be a critical juncture in his political career.
The Deputy President faces accusations that he breached Article 10 of the Constitution, with critics claiming his public statements have been inflammatory and capable of inciting ethnic tension.
His detractors argue that his utterances have crossed the line into reckless and divisive rhetoric, potentially stoking ethnic divisions.
Gachagua is also being scrutinized for allegedly violating Articles 147, 148, 174, 186, and 189 of the Constitution.
These articles relate to the duties of the Deputy President as the President’s principal assistant and the expectations around public service conduct. The DP is accused of failing to uphold his responsibilities, leaving him vulnerable to impeachment.
Furthermore, the embattled leader must defend himself against claims of corruptly acquiring assets using public funds.
Reports indicate that these assets, said to be unlawfully obtained, are located in Nyeri, Nairobi, and Kilifi counties. If these allegations hold water, they could further weaken his position, both legally and politically.
Beyond the legal battles, Gachagua’s relationship with President William Ruto and his inner circle has reportedly soured.
Tensions have brewed between the Deputy President and some of the President’s key allies, with whispers of betrayal growing louder. The strained dynamic has led to speculation of a widening rift between the two leaders.
Gachagua has not shied away from hitting back at his critics, including those close to President Ruto. In a recent fiery statement, he warned the President that if the impeachment effort proceeds, it could jeopardize Ruto’s political standing in the crucial Mt. Kenya region.
“I urge President Ruto to put his house in order and allow us to work. We have a mandate to fulfil to the Kenyan people,” Gachagua stated, signaling his frustration with the ongoing internal strife.
What’s Next for Gachagua?
If the impeachment motion passes, National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula is expected to relay the decision to Senate Speaker Amason Kingi within two days, setting in motion the next phase of this high-stakes political drama.
The coming days will determine whether Gachagua can weather the storm or if his tenure as Deputy President is cut short.
As the drama unfolds, all eyes will be on the National Assembly and the political maneuverings that follow. This is a critical moment for the country’s leadership, with potential ripple effects on governance and future elections.
