Kenya’s Senate prepares to debate the impeachment of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua after a court ruled the proceedings constitutional. The National Assembly previously voted on 11 charges against him, including corruption. Gachagua denies the allegations, describing the motion as politically motivated. A decision in the Senate requires a two-thirds majority for removal, marking a potential historical event in Kenya’s political landscape.
A recent ruling by a Kenyan court has affirmed the constitutional basis for the impeachment proceedings against Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. This decision follows a decisive vote by the National Assembly to impeach him after he was charged with 11 offenses, including allegations of corruption and inciting ethnic discord. The Senate is expected to engage in a discussion regarding Gachagua’s impeachment, which marks a significant moment in Kenya’s political landscape. Gachagua is facing allegations that he has acted inappropriately while in office, charges he vehemently denies, claiming they are politically motivated attacks orchestrated by opposition members and factions loyal to President William Ruto. In light of these developments, Gachagua initiated an appeal; however, Judge Eric Ogola stated that the constitutional process would continue, allowing the Senate to conduct a trial. Following the ruling, the Senate is tasked with determining the outcome of the impeachment process, which necessitates a two-thirds majority vote to remove Gachagua from office. If dismissed, he would be the first deputy president in Kenya’s history to be ousted via impeachment under the country’s current constitutional framework established in 2010. Gachagua’s political journey has seen him transitioning from a successful businessman to a pivotal political figure, but tensions with President Ruto have surfaced amid discussions of governance and political loyalty. Several cabinet reshuffles have also occurred following widespread protests against government tax policies, further complicating the political narrative.
The impeachment of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua unfolds within the context of increasing political tensions in Kenya, particularly in light of internal government disagreements and public protests. Following a tightly contested election in August 2022, where Gachagua played a significant role in securing votes for President Ruto, the subsequent shift in their political relationship has raised questions regarding loyalty and power dynamics in the Kenyan government. The constitution of Kenya allows for the impeachment of a deputy president, a process that was never exercised until now, making these proceedings historic.
The imminent impeachment of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua reflects a critical moment in Kenyan politics, highlighting the fragility of political alliances and the mechanisms of accountability in governance. As the Senate prepares for proceedings that could lead to Gachagua’s removal, the outcome may set a precedent for political behavior and future governance in Kenya.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
