In a dramatic turn of events, Kenya’s Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua is allegedly negotiating an exit plan with emissaries sent to the highest offices of the land. As impeachment proceedings loom in the Senate, sources say Gachagua is contemplating an early resignation in exchange for retaining the prestigious privileges afforded to former Deputy Presidents. If these reports are true, the development could mark one of the most significant political maneuvers in Kenya’s history, potentially saving Gachagua from being ousted through a constitutional process.
The Impeachment Motion – Gachagua’s Political Troubles Mount
Deputy President Gachagua’s political troubles appear to have reached a tipping point. Speculations are rife that a motion to impeach him is gathering momentum within the Senate. With a crucial vote just days away, political pundits believe Gachagua might be exploring alternative ways to protect his dignity and ensure a smooth departure from office. According to insiders, his emissaries have reportedly initiated negotiations with the President to secure a soft landing—allowing him to resign voluntarily rather than be forcefully removed from office through a bruising impeachment.
But here’s the catch: Gachagua’s request to retain his Deputy Presidential privileges despite resigning early may not be feasible under Kenya’s 2010 Constitution.
Resignation Deal: Gachagua Seeks to Retain Full DP Privileges
Reports indicate that Gachagua wants the President to approve a deal where he steps down but continues to enjoy the perks and entitlements associated with a former Deputy President. These privileges, as outlined by the Retirement Benefits (Deputy President and Designated State Officers) Act, 2015, include:
- Security officers for personal protection
- A four-wheel-drive vehicle with an engine capacity not exceeding 3000cc
- A fuel allowance equivalent to 15% of his monthly salary
- A monthly pension equal to 80% of his last salary
- Two saloon vehicles with an engine capacity not exceeding 2000cc (to be replaced every four years)
- A lump sum payment upon retirement
These benefits are designed to ensure that former Deputy Presidents can maintain a dignified lifestyle even after their term ends. However, there’s one significant constitutional roadblock that Gachagua faces in his bid to secure these privileges.
The Constitutional Dilemma – Will Gachagua’s Request Be Granted?
Under the 2010 Constitution, a Deputy President who leaves office before serving half of their five-year term forfeits all the retirement privileges outlined above. Gachagua has not yet reached the midpoint of his term, meaning his request for continued perks is constitutionally “null and void” unless exceptional measures are taken.
Article 151(3) of the Constitution clearly states that “a person who, while holding office as Deputy President, is removed from office on the grounds of gross misconduct, violation of the Constitution, or incapacity, or who voluntarily resigns before completing half the term, shall not be entitled to the retirement benefits associated with that office.” This means that Gachagua’s negotiation efforts, as they currently stand, may face insurmountable legal hurdles.
If the President were to agree to such a deal, it would be in violation of the Constitution, raising questions about the legal and political consequences of such a move.
The High Stakes: What’s at Risk for Gachagua?
Gachagua’s potential resignation comes at a critical juncture in Kenyan politics. His position as Deputy President has been under scrutiny, and his impeachment motion only adds to his mounting troubles. Sources close to Gachagua suggest that he is keen to avoid the embarrassment and reputational damage that could come with a public impeachment trial in the Senate.
The Senate vote on the impeachment motion is expected to be tight, with political analysts divided on whether Gachagua can muster enough support to survive the process. If the vote goes against him, he risks being forcefully ejected from office, which would automatically strip him of his Deputy Presidential privileges and benefits. This, many believe, is why Gachagua is exploring an early exit strategy.
But the stakes are not just high for Gachagua—they are also high for President William Ruto, who must now weigh the political costs of either supporting or abandoning his Deputy President. While Gachagua has been a staunch supporter of Ruto’s administration, the impeachment motion has strained their relationship, with whispers of discontent within the ruling coalition growing louder by the day.
What Happens Next?
If the reports of Gachagua’s resignation negotiations are accurate, the coming days will be critical in determining his political future. While an early resignation could spare him from an impeachment trial, the constitutional implications of his request for privileges cannot be ignored.
Political analysts are already speculating about possible scenarios:
- Ruto Denies Gachagua’s Request: If the President rejects Gachagua’s terms, it could push the Deputy President into a corner, leaving him with no option but to face impeachment or resign without privileges.
- The Senate Vote Goes Against Gachagua: Should the Senate vote to impeach Gachagua, he would lose all Deputy Presidential benefits and be removed from office with immediate effect. This would be a significant blow to his political career.
- A Constitutional Crisis: If the President agrees to Gachagua’s request and grants him privileges after his resignation, it could trigger a legal battle, with the opposition likely to challenge the decision in court. Such a scenario could lead to a constitutional crisis, further complicating Kenya’s already turbulent political landscape.
Public Reaction and Political Fallout
The Kenyan public is divided on the issue, with many taking to social media to express their opinions. Some argue that Gachagua should face the Senate and defend himself, while others believe a negotiated resignation would spare the country the political drama of an impeachment process. However, the question of whether he should be allowed to retain his Deputy Presidential privileges remains a contentious issue.
Should President Ruto agree to Gachagua’s terms, it could set a dangerous precedent, allowing future leaders to negotiate their way out of accountability. On the other hand, rejecting Gachagua’s request could deepen the rift within the ruling coalition, with far-reaching political consequences.
As the nation waits for official confirmation, one thing is certain: Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s political fate hangs in the balance. The coming days will reveal whether he resigns on his terms or faces the wrath of the Senate—and the Constitution.
