An impeachment motion against Kenya’s Deputy President, Rigathi Gachagua, is reportedly ready and may soon be tabled in Parliament.
The motion is said to have received support from Members of Parliament (MPs) across the political divide. Sources indicate that over 116 MPs have signed the motion, which could be presented as early as this week.
However, the specific charges against Gachagua have not yet been revealed. According to Article 150 of the Constitution, a Deputy President can be impeached on grounds of gross misconduct, violations of the Constitution, or involvement in criminal activities.
Rumours of an imminent impeachment gained traction after Kimilili MP Didmus Barasa hinted that the motion was complete and could be introduced at any time. Barasa likened the process to “the coming of Jesus Christ,” suggesting that it could happen unexpectedly.
Sources suggest that MPs allied with President William Ruto, who is currently on a trip to the United States, are keen to table the motion before his return. However, some insiders believe the motion may be delayed until next week, to avoid rushing through such a crucial decision.
Opposition Leader Raila Odinga has reportedly instructed his party, the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), to support the motion. Meanwhile, Gachagua’s allies, including MPs from the Mt Kenya region, have vowed to defend him.
“I hear they wanted to impeach me but they did not have the numbers to do so. Now I hear that they are saying with Raila and his people in government they have the numbers to oust me if they unite,” Gachagua recently disclosed in an interview.
The Deputy President has faced criticism for allegedly prioritising the interests of the Mt Kenya region, which some have labelled as tribalism. He has denied these accusations, stating that they are politically motivated.
If the motion is tabled and passes in the National Assembly, it will proceed to the Senate, where Gachagua’s fate will ultimately be decided.