Kenya’s Deputy President Faces Impeachment Vote: A Power Struggle Unfolds
In a historic move, Kenyan lawmakers have tabled a motion to impeach Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua for abuse of office, sparking widespread debate and speculation about the motivations behind the sudden action. As the country grapples with the implications of this unprecedented move, one thing is clear: the relationship between Gachagua and President William Ruto has been strained for months.
Gachagua, a 59-year-old firebrand known for his outspoken views, has been at odds with Ruto since joining his ticket in the 2022 election. The two have publicly clashed over issues such as anti-government protests, with Gachagua accused of siding with the protesters and even blaming the security services for the unrest. This has led to growing divisions within the ruling coalition, with some members questioning Gachagua’s loyalty to the administration.
The main charges against Gachagua are corruption-related, but political watchers suggest that a clash of personalities and Gachagua’s fiery rhetoric are more to blame. “Ruto likely feels Gachagua has undermined his administration,” said Declan Galvin, managing director of Exigent Risk Advisory. “Ruto is demonstrating his control over government after months of uncertainty. This is a power move.”
The impeachment motion was submitted by a member of Ruto’s ruling coalition, and while the president has kept quiet on the issue, Gachagua has admitted that it could not have gone ahead without his approval. The motion has already been sent to the upper house, where senators have 10 days to make a decision. Two-thirds of the body must approve it to pass.
The reaction to the impeachment has been mixed, with some seeing it as a way to distract Kenyans from other pressing issues, such as the treatment of protesters and scandals like the secretive takeover bid for Nairobi’s international airport by Indian firm Adani. “There are other factors that are affecting us, and they cannot deal with them as they dealt with that issue of impeachment of the deputy president,” said artist Kelvin Muriuki, 32.
Gachagua has vehemently defended himself, saying his wealth is entirely from legitimate sources. However, Galvin suggests that he is likely to fight the impeachment in the courts, and that he may even sponsor protests as part of his resistance. “He can’t accept this lying down. Which is why there are concerns that he may sponsor protests as part of his resistance,” said Galvin.
As the drama unfolds, one thing is certain: the future of Gachagua’s political career hangs in the balance. Will he be able to weather the storm, or will this be the end of his time in office? Only time will tell.
