Gachagua, the Deputy President of Kenya, is facing allegations of corruption, undermining the government, and stirring ethnic hatred. Members of parliament are set to vote on impeaching him, with 291 MPs signing up for the motion. Gachagua denies the allegations and has vowed to fight them to the end, stating his innocence in a televised speech. Despite not being formally charged or subject to a judicial inquiry, lawmakers have listed 11 grounds for impeachment.
Gachagua, who supported President William Ruto in the 2022 election, claims he has been sidelined after falling out with Ruto as political alliances have shifted. Ruto made changes to his cabinet following widespread protests against tax hikes, leading to accusations that Gachagua funded the protests. Despite being charged with unexplained wealth in 2021, the case was dropped when he took office with Ruto. Lawmakers now accuse him of amassing a significant amount of wealth during his time as deputy president while only earning a modest salary. Gachagua attributes his wealth to his family’s business dealings in various sectors.
The potential impeachment of Gachagua could make him the first deputy president to be removed in this manner since Kenya’s revised constitution in 2010. He has made controversial statements likening the government to a company and suggesting that those who voted for the coalition should have priority in public sector jobs and development projects. Gachagua’s defense will be crucial as he faces the vote in parliament and the possibility of being removed from office. Despite the serious allegations against him, Gachagua remains steadfast in his denial of any wrongdoing and willingness to fight until the end.
Gachagua’s alliance with President Ruto was instrumental in securing a large block of votes from the Mount Kenya region during the 2022 election. However, reports suggest a falling out between the two leaders as Ruto reshuffled his cabinet and brought in opposition members following protests. Several MPs associated with Gachagua were summoned by police for their alleged involvement in funding the protests, further complicating the political landscape. The ongoing tensions and shifts in political alliances within the Kenyan government have added to the uncertainty surrounding Gachagua’s future.
As Gachagua prepares to defend himself in parliament against the allegations, the outcome of the impeachment vote will have significant implications for his political career and the broader political landscape in Kenya. The accusations levied against him, including corruption and undermining the government, have raised doubts about his integrity and competence in office. Despite his denials and explanations regarding the sources of his wealth, Gachagua faces an uphill battle to clear his name and retain his position as deputy president. The decision of the National Assembly and potential subsequent vote in the Senate will determine the fate of Gachagua and his political future in Kenya.
