Kenyan Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua finds himself in a precarious position as impeachment proceedings loom, spurred by allegations of corruption, incitement of ethnic tensions, and actions purportedly detrimental to the government’s integrity. The allegations, levelled predominantly by members of President William Ruto’s coalition, threaten Gachagua’s political future, with lawmakers commencing formal hearings on Tuesday.
In a statement made during a press conference on Monday, Gachagua vehemently denied all charges, asserting, “I am innocent of all these charges,” and characterising the accusations as unfounded. Among the specific allegations are claims of Gachagua’s substantial unexplained property acquisitions and the promotion of “ethnic balkanisation,” a term denoting the division of groups along ethnic lines that has historically plagued Kenya’s political landscape.
The impeachment motion, launched on October 1, received substantial backing, with over 80% of lawmakers endorsing the initiative. The public sentiment appears to favour the proceedings; nearly two-thirds of participants in a recent consultation expressed their approval of Gachagua’s impeachment, as highlighted by lawmaker Millie Odhiambo during the parliamentary hearing.
Gachagua’s troubles are compounded by reports of a rift with President Ruto, a dynamic that has shifted in the wake of nationwide protests against unpopular tax increases in mid-2023, which resulted in over 50 fatalities. Following these protests, Ruto dismissed a significant portion of his cabinet and appointed opposition members, further destabilising Gachagua’s standing within the administration.
“I have no intention whatsoever to resign from this job. I will fight to the end,” Gachagua proclaimed, positioning himself as a steadfast defender of his record and loyalty to Ruto, whom he helped propel to victory in the 2022 election. However, the political landscape has shifted dramatically since then, leaving Gachagua increasingly isolated and under scrutiny.
The High Court’s refusal to halt the impeachment process further complicates Gachagua’s situation, as he is expected to present his defence to Parliament later today. Should the National Assembly vote by a two-thirds majority in favour of the motion, the Senate will be called upon to ratify the decision, potentially paving the way for Gachagua’s ousting.
His recent comments have also drawn ire within Ruto’s coalition, particularly his analogy likening the government to a corporate entity, which suggested that coalition supporters should have preferential access to public sector positions and development initiatives. This analogy has not only heightened tensions but also cast doubt on his commitment to the principles of equitable governance.
As the proceedings unfold, the focus remains squarely on Gachagua’s fate, encapsulating a moment of political reckoning that resonates throughout Kenya’s fractured political landscape. The outcome could have far-reaching implications, not only for Gachagua but also for the stability of Ruto’s administration, amid a backdrop of public discontent and shifting political allegiances.
