Kenyan Senators Vote to Oust Deputy President Gachagua Amid Impeachment Trial
In a remarkable turn of events in Kenya’s political landscape, senators have decided to remove Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua from office. This decision comes despite Gachagua’s absence from his impeachment trial, as he was hospitalized due to alleged chest pains.
The highly publicized trial took a dramatic turn when Gachagua, who had pleaded not guilty to 11 charges the day prior, failed to appear in the Senate to defend himself. His legal team requested a postponement, citing health issues, but the senators opted to proceed without him, leading to the departure of Gachagua’s defense team from the chamber.
The determination of the Senate to continue the trial without delay reflects growing frustration with Gachagua, particularly following his fallout with President William Ruto several months ago. The National Assembly had already signaled their intentions through an overwhelming vote to impeach Gachagua, paving the way for this consequential Senate trial.
Gachagua, a prominent businessman from the influential Mount Kenya region, has labeled the impeachment process as a “political lynching.” On Thursday, in a decisive vote, two-thirds of the 67 senators found him guilty on multiple charges including corruption and inciting ethnic tensions, leading to his removal.
This event marks a significant shift in Kenyan politics, coming just two years after Gachagua was elected alongside Ruto. The impeachment paints a clear picture of ongoing power struggles within the government, reinforcing Ruto’s authority as he navigates internal conflicts.
Tensions had escalated in June when Gachagua publicly criticized the head of the intelligence agency, further complicating his relationship with Ruto, who was already dealing with backlash over unpopular tax policies. In a bid to regain control, Ruto subsequently reshuffled his cabinet, incorporating opposition members to stabilize his government.
Ruto has not yet made any public comments regarding Gachagua’s impeachment. During the trial, Gachagua’s attorney labeled the allegations against his client as “false, ridiculous, or embarrassing.” Gachagua has also indicated plans to challenge the Senate’s decision if it proceeds.
Reports indicate that he was admitted to the hospital for heart-related issues but is currently stable. Discussions about potential successors for Gachagua have begun circulating in the media, with notable names including Murang’a County Governor Irungu Kang’ata, Kirinyaga County Governor Anne Waiguru, Interior Minister Kithure Kindiki, and Foreign Affairs Minister Musalia Mudavadi being mentioned as possible replacements.
