Kenyan lawmakers are set to commence impeachment proceedings against Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, citing allegations of undermining the government. This development indicates a growing divide between President William Ruto and his deputy, as articulated by the majority leader of parliament, Kimani Ichung’wah.
Ichung’wah confirmed on Sunday that he has signed the impeachment motion, stating, “It is true there is an impeachment motion against the deputy president. I will support that motion to stop a process where the government is being undermined from within.” The looming impeachment adds to the government’s challenges, particularly following months of protests that erupted over a contentious finance bill. The backlash from these protests prompted Ruto to withdraw the legislation and significantly reshuffle his cabinet.
Gachagua has not publicly responded to requests for comment regarding the motion but has recently expressed feelings of being sidelined. He has denied any connections to the unrest that led to over 50 fatalities, labeling such accusations as attempts to tarnish his reputation and create justification for the impeachment proceedings.
Addressing the issue, Gachagua asserted that any impeachment motion would require the approval of President Ruto. “Without the president’s go-ahead, the motion cannot reach parliament,” he stated. Gachagua enjoys considerable support in Kenya’s central region, and moves to unseat him could potentially spark discontent in that area, further complicating Ruto’s administration.
The unrest surrounding the finance legislation has marked Ruto’s most significant challenge since taking office in 2022, as demonstrators opposed proposed tax increases and called for action against corruption and misgovernance. Following the protests, Ruto appointed members from the main opposition party to his cabinet, a decision critics argue perpetuates the co-opting of opposition voices without addressing the systemic reforms demanded by the public.
