Historic Impeachment of Kenya’s Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua

Kenya’s Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua was impeached on October 17, 2024, becoming the first deputy to be ousted under the revised Constitution. The National Assembly voted overwhelmingly for impeachment due to 11 charges, concluding with the Senate confirming five, including threatening judges. Gachagua, who recently had health issues, faces a politically uncertain future as discussions about his successor begin amid cooperation tensions with President Ruto.

On October 17, 2024, Kenya’s Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua was removed from his position following a historic impeachment trial. This unprecedented event marks Gachagua as the first deputy president to be ousted under the provisions of the revised 2010 Constitution. The impeachment was initiated by the National Assembly, where Gachagua faced 11 charges, including corruption and abuse of office. Ultimately, the Senate found him guilty on five of those counts, including threatening judges and engaging in ethnically divisive politics, although he was acquitted of corruption and money laundering allegations. The impeachment process was rife with tension and drama, particularly as Gachagua was admitted to the hospital for chest pains on the day of the Senate trial. Despite his attorneys’ protests regarding his inability to defend himself, the trial proceeded. The National Assembly had voted overwhelmingly in favor of impeachment, achieving more than the required two-thirds majority, setting the stage for the Senate’s decision. Gachagua, who had been pivotal in President William Ruto’s electoral win in 2022, recently expressed that he was being sidelined and accused of inciting youth-led protests against the government. Discussions of a successor have emerged, with figures such as Interior Minister Kithure Kindiki and Foreign Minister Musalia Mudavadi being noted as potential candidates for the deputy position. This impeachment has stirred political uncertainty in a nation generally viewed as a stable democracy in a region marked by volatility.

This article discusses the significant political event of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s removal from office due to impeachment as outlined by Kenya’s Constitution. The context includes the political dynamics between Gachagua and President William Ruto, the prevailing issues surrounding governance, and public unrest due to tax hikes. The article also touches on the long-standing implications of this impeachment on Kenya’s political landscape and the response from various political entities and public figures.

In conclusion, the impeachment of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua represents a pivotal moment in Kenya’s political history, showcasing the power dynamics between government officials and the implications of anti-corruption norms. Gachagua’s removal not only raises questions about political alliances within the current administration but also creates a climate of uncertainty regarding the forthcoming leadership in the deputy president’s office. Looking ahead, the actions of President Ruto in appointing a new deputy will be closely monitored as they potentially reshape the political landscape in Kenya.

Original Source: www.jamaicaobserver.com