Kenya’s Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has been impeached in a historic Senate trial that follows an equally decisive vote by the National Assembly. Gachagua was found guilty on five counts, including gross constitutional violations, after being hospitalized and unable to defend himself. His impeachment adds to political uncertainty in Kenya, raising questions about the ruling administration as President William Ruto prepares to appoint a new deputy.
In an unprecedented move that has captivated the nation, Rigathi Gachagua, the Deputy President of Kenya, was impeached on Thursday following a tumultuous Senate trial. Gachagua, who faced a staggering 11 charges, including corruption and abuse of office, was found guilty on five counts. This decision comes after the National Assembly overwhelmingly approved his impeachment the prior week, with 282 votes in favor—exceeding the two-thirds majority required. The day’s proceedings were marked by high drama, as Gachagua was unable to present his defense due to hospitalization from severe chest pains. Senate Speaker Amason Kingi announced, “The Senate has resolved to remove from office, by impeachment, his excellency Rigathi Gachagua, the deputy president of the Republic of Kenya,” officially leading to Gachagua’s removal from office. The charges against him included severe constitutional violations, notably threats against judges and engaging in ethnically divisive politics, although he was acquitted of various corruption-related charges. The impeachment process has incited political uncertainty within Kenya, a country typically known for its stable governance amidst East Africa’s turbulent political landscape. As a result of his impeachment, Gachagua is positioned to challenge his removal through legal avenues, as no criminal proceedings have yet commenced against him. Meanwhile, President William Ruto is tasked with nominating a successor within fourteen days, with various names being speculated in the media.
Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s impeachment marks a significant moment in Kenyan politics, being the first such event to occur since the introduction of impeachment provisions in the revised 2010 constitution. His rise to the vice presidency was facilitated by his vital role in supporting President William Ruto during the 2022 elections. Nonetheless, recent criticisms surrounding fiscal policies and allegations of sidelining by the President have significantly marred his political standing. This trial reflects deeper political rifts and governance issues that have escalated since protests erupted in response to unpopular tax hikes earlier this year, challenging the unity within the ruling party and the president’s administration.
The impeachment of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua stands as a historic point in Kenya’s political landscape, raising questions about governance and the stability of the current administration. With the Senate finding him guilty of serious constitutional infractions, Gachagua’s political future now hangs in the balance as he weighs his legal options. President Ruto faces the imperative task of appointing a new deputy in the wake of this tumultuous event, signaling potential shifts in the political alliances and power dynamics within the Kenyan government.
Original Source: www.seychellesnewsagency.com
