Kenya’s National Assembly has taken a significant step toward potentially removing Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua from office. An overwhelming majority voted last week to impeach him, paving the way for a crucial two-day trial in the Senate that will ultimately determine his fate.
Gachagua is facing 11 charges, including corruption, incitement of ethnic divisions, and undermining government operations, all of which he has vehemently denied. The political turmoil comes on the heels of a fallout with President William Ruto, who has remained silent on the impeachment proceedings.
The Senate’s trial marks a departure from an initial plan to form an 11-member committee to investigate the claims against Gachagua. As proceedings commenced, the charges were read aloud, and opening statements by both sides took place. Analysts anticipate that the ruling party senators will align with the main opposition, mirroring the support seen during the previous vote in the National Assembly.
Starting Wednesday at 12:00 local time, the National Assembly’s evidence, including witness testimonies, will be presented in a structured format, allowing for three hours of examination followed by two hours of cross-examination. The trial will continue on Thursday, focusing on evidence and witness testimonies from Gachagua’s defense team.
Senators are scheduled to debate the motion for about two hours on Thursday evening before casting their vote, which is slated for 20:30 local time. The Senate may choose to extend proceedings to Friday, the final day allowed for legal extensions.
For Gachagua to be removed from office, at least two-thirds of the 67 Senate members must support the motion. If the impeachment is upheld, Gachagua would be permanently barred from holding any public office. He has indicated plans to contest the impeachment in court should it pass.
Despite his efforts to halt the impeachment process, including filing 26 court cases, Gachagua has faced repeated setbacks. A judge recently ruled against interference in the Senate proceedings, emphasizing the legislature’s constitutional responsibilities. Additionally, a three-judge bench supported this stance prior to the trial’s initiation.
Gachagua’s impeachment includes allegations of acquiring assets worth 5.2 billion Kenyan shillings (approximately $40 million) within two years of his vice-presidency, purportedly through corrupt activities. He contends that many of these properties stem from his late brother’s estate.
A prominent businessman from the influential central Mount Kenya region, Gachagua ascended rapidly within the political landscape, moving from first-time MP to Deputy President following his selection as Ruto’s running mate in the August 2022 election, despite previous corruption allegations that had been dismissed.
The ongoing trial continues to dominate public discourse in Kenya, with many citizens viewing it as a distraction from pressing economic challenges, including the rising cost of living. Recent protests in June highlighted widespread discontent over tax increases, revealing a growing rift between Gachagua and Ruto.
Gachagua now faces accusations of undermining national security following controversial comments he made regarding intelligence agencies.
