Kenya’s Deputy Prez Gachagua Falls Ill During Impeachment

Kenya’s Senate is proceeding with the impeachment hearing of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, despite his hospitalisation due to illness. Gachagua, who pleaded not guilty to 11 charges, is at the center of a political storm as he faces allegations of corruption, inciting ethnic divisions, and supporting anti-government protests. The impeachment vote is expected to take place Thursday evening, marking a pivotal moment in Kenya’s political landscape.

Gachagua Hospitalized Amid Intense Impeachment Battle

Gachagua’s legal team, led by lawyer Paul Muite, revealed that the deputy president was suffering from “intense chest pains” and had been advised by doctors to rest. The legal team requested an adjournment, but the Senate voted against delaying the trial. The hearings have continued in Gachagua’s absence, with his lawyers walking out in protest.

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This marks the first time in Kenya’s history that a sitting deputy president has faced impeachment, making this a significant moment for both Gachagua and the country’s political system.

Charges Against Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua

The impeachment motion against Gachagua includes serious accusations:

• Corruption: Gachagua is accused of acquiring assets worth over $40 million since taking office, a sharp increase from his previously declared net worth of $6 million.
• Inciting Ethnic Divisions: Lawmakers accuse Gachagua of making inflammatory remarks that have fuelled ethnic tensions, particularly in his home region of Mount Kenya.
• Anti-Government Protests: Gachagua is also charged with supporting protests against tax hikes, which led to violent demonstrations in Kenya’s capital earlier this year.

Gachagua has denied all charges, calling the impeachment a politically motivated “witch hunt.”

Rift Between Gachagua and President Ruto

The impeachment trial underscores a growing rift between Deputy President Gachagua and President William Ruto, who were elected together in 2022. Tensions between the two have escalated in recent months, with Gachagua accused of undermining Ruto’s leadership. This political fallout has led to public speculation about the future of Kenya’s government, particularly if Gachagua is removed from office.

Observers suggest that the impeachment could also have consequences for President Ruto, as calls for greater scrutiny of his administration may follow. The trial is seen by many as a distraction from Kenya’s economic challenges, including the fallout from the deadly anti-tax protests earlier this year.

Impeachment Proceedings Continue Without Gachagua

Despite Gachagua’s absence due to his hospitalisation, the Senate has pressed ahead with the impeachment proceedings. His legal team, after requesting a delay, left the chambers when their motion was denied.

Key witnesses have testified against Gachagua, including Mwengi Mutuse, the lawmaker who initiated the impeachment motion. Mutuse accused Gachagua of acquiring wealth through corrupt means and inciting ethnic hatred through divisive public statements. During cross-examination, however, Gachagua’s legal team challenged the evidence, arguing that the allegations were speculative and lacked concrete proof.

If the Senate votes in favour of the impeachment, Gachagua will become the first deputy president in Kenya’s history to be ousted under the country’s 2010 constitution. The outcome of the Senate vote is highly anticipated, with many predicting that Gachagua will challenge the decision in court if the impeachment is approved.

What This Impeachment Means for Kenya

Kenya’s political future hangs in the balance as the impeachment trial of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua continues. This historic trial highlights the deep divisions within the ruling coalition and raises questions about the integrity of Kenya’s political leadership.

If Gachagua is removed, the ripple effects could be profound. President Ruto, already facing criticism for his handling of the economy and recent protests, may find himself under increased scrutiny. The trial also raises broader questions about governance and accountability in Kenya, with citizens and political analysts alike calling for transparency and integrity from their leaders.

As Kenyans await the final outcome, one thing is clear: this impeachment trial has captured the attention of the entire nation, and its result could have lasting implications for Kenya’s political landscape.