Kenya has been shaken by the impeachment of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, who was removed from office by the Senate following a contentious trial. Gachagua, who was ousted after being found guilty on five of the 11 charges leveled against him, has launched a scathing attack on President William Ruto, accusing him of betrayal and cruelty.
The impeachment has not only heightened tensions between Gachagua and Ruto but has also raised concerns about political power struggles in the country.
In an emotional statement to reporters, Gachagua expressed his shock and disbelief at his removal, accusing Ruto of being “vicious” despite their political history. Gachagua emphasized that he had supported Ruto’s presidential bid and had even endured persecution for his loyalty. “I am shocked by how vicious a man I helped to be president, believed in, and was persecuted when I supported could be so vicious against me,” he said.
Gachagua went further, suggesting that his life and that of his family could be at risk following the impeachment. He claimed that his security detail had been withdrawn and his entire staff placed on compulsory leave. “If anything happens to me or my family, President William Ruto must be held to account,” Gachagua stated, alluding to previous alleged attempts on his life.
The former deputy president made these comments shortly after being discharged from a Nairobi hospital, where he had been treated for severe chest pains. His health issues surfaced just before he was scheduled to testify in his impeachment trial, leading to a turbulent two-day session in which his legal team unsuccessfully sought to delay the proceedings.
Gachagua was ultimately found guilty of several charges, including threatening judges and engaging in ethnically divisive politics. However, he was acquitted of more serious allegations, such as corruption and money laundering. His impeachment marks a significant chapter in Kenyan politics, as Gachagua becomes the first deputy president to be ousted under the provisions of the 2010 constitution.
In a swift political maneuver, President Ruto nominated Interior Minister Kithure Kindiki to replace Gachagua as deputy president. However, the appointment process faced a legal setback when a High Court suspended the nomination shortly after the parliament voted to approve Kindiki. A three-judge bench is set to hear the case on Tuesday, potentially prolonging the political drama.
The impeachment has raised questions about the future of Kenya’s political leadership, as well as the nature of the relationship between the president and other high-ranking officials. Gachagua’s accusations have further polarized public opinion, with some supporting his claims of betrayal, while others believe his ousting was justified based on the charges brought against him.
As the case moves forward, the political fallout from Gachagua’s impeachment will continue to unfold, with the courts set to play a crucial role in determining the next steps in the leadership crisis. All eyes will be on the upcoming legal proceedings, as well as the broader implications for Kenya’s governance under President Ruto.
