In a historic moment, the Kenyan Senate voted on Thursday to impeach Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, marking the first-ever removal of a deputy president since the country’s 2010 constitutional reforms.
Gachagua was found guilty on five of the 11 charges brought against him, including corruption, money laundering, and undermining the government. Despite his hospitalization due to severe chest pains, the Senate proceeded with the vote, rejecting a request from his legal team for a delay.
The Senate’s decision follows a similar vote by the National Assembly last week, cementing Gachagua’s ouster from office. His legal team walked out of the proceedings in protest, claiming the process was politically driven and unfair. Gachagua has vehemently denied the allegations, calling the impeachment a “political lynching.”
While President William Ruto has remained silent on the matter, the impeachment is seen by many as a reflection of the political tension within the government. Critics argue that Gachagua’s removal was orchestrated to distract from widespread unrest following anti-tax protests earlier in the year.
Political analysts suggest the impeachment could trigger more scrutiny on the president, given the detailed examination of Gachagua’s financial dealings. In a swift move, Ruto nominated Interior Minister Kithure Kindiki as the new deputy president, a decision announced by Speaker Moses Wetang’ula in parliament on Friday.
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President William Ruto has remained largely silent, save for his announcement nominating Kithure Kindiki as Gachagua’s replacement. The nomination, which must be approved by parliament, is expected to proceed smoothly given Ruto’s parliamentary majority and the support of the main opposition party.
Ruto and Gachagua were elected as running mates two years ago, with Gachagua’s strong ties to the Kikuyu-dominated Mount Kenya region playing a crucial role in Ruto’s victory. However, tensions between the two have escalated in recent months, culminating in Gachagua’s impeachment over charges of corruption, ethnic divisiveness, and undermining the government.
This political drama echoes Ruto’s own experience as deputy president under former President Uhuru Kenyatta. The two leaders initially formed an alliance when they both faced trial at the International Criminal Court for their alleged roles in the post-election violence of 2007, which left 1,200 dead. Charges against Kenyatta were dropped in 2014, while Ruto’s case was dismissed in 2016, with judges citing witness tampering and political interference.
Kindiki, a prominent figure from the Mount Kenya region, has long been considered a top contender for the deputy president role. With his nomination now before parliament, many believe the process will be smooth, ensuring that Ruto’s administration remains stable despite the upheaval.
As Kenya continues to grapple with economic difficulties, Gachagua’s impeachment is expected to stir further political debate.
Credible News.ng
