KENYA’S Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua is facing a fierce political battle as impeachment proceedings against him move forward in parliament. Accusations against Gachagua include corruption, enriching himself unlawfully, promoting ethnic divisions, and undermining the government. Despite these allegations, Gachagua has publicly vowed to fight the charges and maintain his position, stating, ‘I am innocent of all these charges. I will fight to the end.’
The impeachment motion was launched on October 1 by allies of President William Ruto’s coalition, following growing tensions between the deputy president and the head of state. Gachagua, once a key ally who secured a significant voter base for Ruto in the 2022 elections, is now reportedly sidelined as political alliances in Kenya have shifted. This rift was further highlighted by Ruto’s recent cabinet reshuffle, which saw many of his original ministers replaced by members of the opposition following public protests against tax increases.
The high court declined Gachagua’s request to halt the impeachment proceedings, clearing the way for parliament to hear the case. More than 80 percent of lawmakers signed the motion, and if it passes with a two-thirds majority, the matter will then go to the Senate. In the meantime, Gachagua has refused to resign and continues to assert his loyalty to Ruto, claiming, ‘I have worked hard. I have been very loyal to my boss, President William Ruto.’
Ruto has remained silent on the impeachment process, even as the case stirs political divisions within his government. Gachagua’s comments, likening the government to a company and suggesting that those who voted for the coalition deserve preferential treatment for jobs and development projects, have sparked outrage among Ruto’s allies.
The outcome of this hearing could have wide-reaching implications for Kenya’s political landscape as the government grapples with internal divisions amid ongoing public discontent over economic reforms.
