Compiled By Our Reporter
WORLD
Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua is on the brink of political turmoil as efforts to oust him gain momentum, marking the peak of tensions between him and President William Ruto. What started as mere whispers last month has now evolved into serious discussions, with reports indicating that a faction of MPs and a Cabinet Secretary nominee are orchestrating Gachagua’s impeachment.
The rift between Ruto and Gachagua has escalated since the announcement of a new look Cabinet, with accusations of gross misconduct and constitutional violations.
Reports indicate that a high-stakes meeting on Saturday night, attended by 21 MPs and a Cabinet Secretary nominee, resolved to initiate an impeachment motion against Gachagua.
The attendees, primarily from the Mt Kenya region, criticised Gachagua for allegedly undermining President Ruto and perpetuating a divisive ethnic narrative. According to reporting by the outlet, the Cabinet Secretary nominee stated that the President was frustrated with his deputy’s behaviour, which included making unreasonable demands for government appointments favouring his community.
“Deputy President Gachagua’s actions have been detrimental to the unity of our government,” stated an MP who attended the meeting. “His divisive tribal narratives and constant demands for government positions for his community have undermined President Ruto’s leadership.”
The accusations against Gachagua include allegations of blackmail and holding the President hostage by insisting on key appointments for individuals from the Mt Kenya region. One notable instance cited was Gachagua’s insistence that the former Kenya Revenue Authority Commissioner General Githii Mburu’s position be retained by someone from his region.
“Gachagua’s parochial and tribal approach to governance is unacceptable,” an MP declared. “His opposition to the Finance Bill 2024 and urging pro-government MPs to defy it was a blatant act of insubordination.”
The CS nominee, who spoke to the MPs, asserted that President Ruto was frustrated with his deputy’s irresponsible behaviour. “The President is fed up with Gachagua’s antics. He constantly holds secret meetings with his community, inciting them against paying taxes and opposing government policies,” the nominee said.
This political drama unfolds against the backdrop of President Ruto’s decision to incorporate opposition leader Raila Odinga’s loyalists into his Cabinet, a move seen by political analysts as a direct attack on Gachagua.
Former Gatanga MP Nduati Ngugi last weekend told Nation, “Ruto and Odinga combining forces poses a significant threat to Gachagua. His impeachment could be imminent if he doesn’t navigate this situation carefully.”
Maragua MP Mary wa Maua had last month alleged a plot against Gachagua, stating, “There is a scheme to oust the Deputy President, but we will stand by him to the end.”
Gachagua’s supporters argue that the impeachment threat is a tactic to intimidate the Deputy President and the Mt Kenya region. Embakasi North MP James Gakuya dared the plotters to bring forth the motion, saying, “It’s time to stop using impeachment as a tool for blackmail. If they have the numbers, let them proceed.”
Kirinyaga Women Representative Njeri Maina echoed this sentiment, urging President Ruto to protect his deputy from internal political infighting. “The President must shield Gachagua from these attacks. Impeaching him would be a betrayal to the Mt Kenya people and could backfire politically,” she said.
Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga warned that any action against Gachagua would be perceived as an insult to the Mt Kenya region. “We remember how Ruto was undermined by the previous regime. We are closely monitoring the situation,” he remarked.
While speaking at Inooro TV on Tuesday, July 30, nominated MP Sabina Chege stated she would not support any plans to ouster Gachagua. The vocal legislator asked, “I will not keep quiet when there are plans to remove Gachagua. I wonder, is it only our man who is rotten?”. She went on to call for unity in the region.
During a church service in Nyandarua, Gachagua acknowledged his regional focus and readiness to face any consequences. “I admit I have a weakness for prioritising my people. If that warrants punishment, so be it,” he stated.
The Deputy President also recounted an analogy of a cunning hare outwitting a hyena, drawing parallels to his current predicament. “Some leaders have been recruited to fight me, but I will continue to defend my people,” he asserted.
The plot to impeach Gachagua first surfaced on June 12, with MPs from both the government and the opposition accusing him of undermining the presidency. Minority Leader Opiyo Wandayi, now a CS nominee, remarked, “If the marriage isn’t working, it’s time to separate.”
Article 150 of the Constitution outlines the grounds for removing a Deputy President, including physical or mental incapacity or gross violation of constitutional provisions.
