Kenyan Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has unexpectedly found himself in the hospital ahead of a crucial impeachment vote. Initially present during Senate proceedings, Gachagua’s deteriorating health prevented him from testifying. His lawyer, Paul Muite, confirmed the situation, prompting the suspension of Senate sittings.
The impeachment trial revolves around serious accusations against Gachagua, including corruption and ethnic incitement. As the proceedings began, he denied 11 charges against him, asserting his innocence. Meanwhile, a significant number of members in the National Assembly previously voted in favor of his impeachment, setting a challenging stage for Gachagua.
The rift between Gachagua and President William Ruto has escalated over the past two years since they were elected together. Tensions reached a peak in June when Gachagua publicly criticized the intelligence agency for not properly advising Ruto during a time of civil unrest over tax hikes, leading to Ruto’s retreat on these unpopular fiscal policies. Recent actions have compelled Ruto to reshuffle his cabinet, inviting members of the opposition into his circle.
During the trial, lawmakers like Mwengi Mutuse aggressively framed Gachagua as a significant constitutional violator. Mutuse underscored the nature of the deputy president’s supposed misdeeds, arguing his comments likening the government to a company had far-reaching implications on developmental equity.
Despite serious allegations, Gachagua's defense team has described the charges as "false" and "ridiculous," asserting that much of the wealth attributed to Gachagua comes from inheritances rather than corruption. The deputy president is rumored to possess assets valued at Ksh 5.2 billion, equating to approximately 40 million USD.
The absence of Gachagua at such a critical time may compel the Senate to move forward with the impeachment findings, with a vote expected shortly. Many observers predict that if opposition members align with the ruling coalition, Gachagua's impeachment may be inevitable, and speculation arises about his potential successors, including several prominent figures from central Kenya.
As the trial continues, the scrutiny on Gachagua’s leadership and actions has captured the attention of both the public and media, further complicating Kenya's political landscape amid an ongoing battle for integrity and accountability.
The impeachment trial revolves around serious accusations against Gachagua, including corruption and ethnic incitement. As the proceedings began, he denied 11 charges against him, asserting his innocence. Meanwhile, a significant number of members in the National Assembly previously voted in favor of his impeachment, setting a challenging stage for Gachagua.
The rift between Gachagua and President William Ruto has escalated over the past two years since they were elected together. Tensions reached a peak in June when Gachagua publicly criticized the intelligence agency for not properly advising Ruto during a time of civil unrest over tax hikes, leading to Ruto’s retreat on these unpopular fiscal policies. Recent actions have compelled Ruto to reshuffle his cabinet, inviting members of the opposition into his circle.
During the trial, lawmakers like Mwengi Mutuse aggressively framed Gachagua as a significant constitutional violator. Mutuse underscored the nature of the deputy president’s supposed misdeeds, arguing his comments likening the government to a company had far-reaching implications on developmental equity.
Despite serious allegations, Gachagua's defense team has described the charges as "false" and "ridiculous," asserting that much of the wealth attributed to Gachagua comes from inheritances rather than corruption. The deputy president is rumored to possess assets valued at Ksh 5.2 billion, equating to approximately 40 million USD.
The absence of Gachagua at such a critical time may compel the Senate to move forward with the impeachment findings, with a vote expected shortly. Many observers predict that if opposition members align with the ruling coalition, Gachagua's impeachment may be inevitable, and speculation arises about his potential successors, including several prominent figures from central Kenya.
As the trial continues, the scrutiny on Gachagua’s leadership and actions has captured the attention of both the public and media, further complicating Kenya's political landscape amid an ongoing battle for integrity and accountability.
