Kenya’s National Assembly has impeached Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, following accusations of corruption and abuse of office.
On Tuesday night, lawmakers voted overwhelmingly to remove Gachagua from office, marking a significant moment in the country’s political landscape.
Out of 326 members of parliament, 281 voted in favour of his impeachment, 44 opposed the motion, and one abstained.
The impeachment motion now moves to the Senate, where Gachagua’s fate will be decided. If the Senate upholds the National Assembly’s decision, Gachagua will be officially removed from office, making him the first deputy president in Kenya’s history to be impeached.
Gachagua is accused of acquiring properties through corrupt means, amassing wealth worth 5.2 billion Kenyan shillings (approximately £31 million) in just two years. He claims that the assets in question belonged to his late brother. Additionally, he faces allegations of practising ethnic politics and undermining the government.
Despite these accusations, Gachagua has denied any wrongdoing, calling the charges against him “outrageous” and “sheer propaganda.” He has vowed to fight the allegations, stating he has no intention of resigning and will take legal action to clear his name.
The impeachment comes in the wake of growing tensions between Gachagua and President William Ruto.
Their fallout has been public, with political commentators like Martin Andati suggesting that Gachagua’s strained relationships with fellow politicians and poor people management skills contributed to his downfall.
While some lawmakers, such as Robert Mbui, criticised the impeachment proceedings as a distraction from more pressing issues like the high cost of living, the vote reflects broader political divisions.
Kenya has experienced months of unrest, with protests against high taxes and accusations of corruption within the government.
As the Senate prepares to deliberate on the motion, political experts like Harman Manyora warn that the impeachment could set a dangerous precedent for Kenya’s political stability, potentially deepening ethnic divisions within the country.