Kenya’s political landscape is experiencing seismic shifts as more than 290 Members of Parliament (MPs) rally behind a motion to impeach Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. Tabled on October 1, 2024, by Kibwezi West MP Mwengi Mutuse, the motion accuses Gachagua of multiple offenses, from gross constitutional violations to corruption and incitement.
The impeachment motion, supported by 291 MPs, surpasses the constitutional threshold needed for such a process, marking the most significant political move against a sitting deputy president in Kenya’s recent history. Mutuse’s detailed 100-page document outlines 11 specific charges, including accusations of amassing Ksh 5.2 billion through illicit means and fostering ethnic division. His supporters argue that these violations, which also contravene the Anti-Corruption and Economic Crimes Act, make Gachagua unfit to continue in office(Citizen Digital)(KBC News).
MPs Fear for Their Security as Tensions Rise
As the debate intensifies, concerns over the safety of MPs who signed the motion have taken center stage. National Assembly Minority Leader Junet Mohamed has called for increased security for lawmakers, fearing potential backlash from Gachagua’s supporters. He emphasized that the impeachment is a serious constitutional process that should proceed without intimidation, drawing parallels to the historic impeachment of U.S. President Donald Trump(Citizen Digital).
Dadaab MP Farah Maalim echoed these concerns, extending the call for protection to President William Ruto, fearing that some could exploit the situation to alter Kenya’s political hierarchy. There are whispers of darker plots within the corridors of power, with some lawmakers expressing fears that rogue elements could resort to violence to derail the process(KBC News).
Gachagua’s Fate Hangs in the Balance
While the motion has gathered significant momentum, it remains uncertain how the impeachment vote will unfold. Speaker Moses Wetang’ula confirmed that the special motion met all the legal requirements, but Gachagua’s allies are expected to mount a fierce defense.
The DP has faced mounting criticism for his alleged role in stoking ethnic tensions and undermining the presidency. MPs have also raised concerns about his conduct, claiming he has publicly undermined the Nairobi County government’s directives, further polarizing the nation. These, along with corruption allegations, are likely to dominate the impeachment debate(Citizen Digital).
As Kenya braces for the outcome of this high-stakes political showdown, all eyes are on Parliament, where the country’s future leadership dynamics may soon change. The impeachment motion marks a critical juncture for the ruling coalition, as President Ruto’s administration could be thrown into further turmoil if his deputy is ousted. For now, Kenya watches closely as its political elite navigate this unprecedented crisis.
