Tensions Rise in Kenya as Lawmakers Move to Impeach Deputy President Gachagua
Kenyan lawmakers are set to initiate impeachment proceedings against Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. The move stems from allegations that Gachagua has been undermining the government’s efforts, a situation that underscores the growing rift between him and President William Ruto.
Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah confirmed on Sunday that he has signed the impeachment motion, emphasizing the need to halt any internal sabotage within the government. “I will support that impeachment motion to stop a process where government is being undermined,” Ichung’wah stated.
The friction between Gachagua and Ruto comes on the heels of recent unrest in Kenya, where protests erupted over a contentious finance bill. The unrest, which led to the deaths of more than 50 individuals, forced Ruto to withdraw the legislation in June and resulted in the dismissal of nearly his entire cabinet.
Gachagua has publicly expressed feelings of being sidelined within the administration and has denied allegations linking him to the civil unrest. He characterized the impeachment discussions as an attempt to tarnish his reputation, suggesting that the motion could not advance without the president’s approval.
“Without the president’s go-ahead, the motion cannot reach parliament. If it reaches parliament, it is the president who has authorized it,” he asserted.
Despite these challenges, Gachagua maintains a strong support base in Kenya’s populous central region, and any attempts to unseat him could provoke further discontent among his constituents.
The unfolding political drama highlights the ongoing turbulence within Ruto’s government, marking a critical moment in Kenyan politics since Gachagua took office in 2022. As tensions mount, observers will be watching closely to see how this situation evolves and what implications it may have for the future of the administration.
Additional source: Reuters
