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Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua Ousted Amidst Controversy
In a significant turn of events in Kenya’s political landscape, the Senate has voted to remove Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua from office. This decision came despite Gachagua’s absence from his impeachment trial, which he missed due to reported health issues.
Gachagua, who is often referred to as “Riggy G,” was scheduled to defend himself in the Senate following a plea of not guilty to multiple charges, including corruption and inciting ethnic tensions. However, a last-minute request from his legal team for a postponement was prompted by Gachagua’s hospitalization for chest pains, as stated by his lawyer.
The senators opted to proceed with the trial in Gachagua’s absence, indicating a strong resolve to remove him from office nearly six months after a visible rift with President William Ruto. This decision reflects a growing impatience among the legislators, who were clearly determined to move forward with the impeachment process.
Last week, Gachagua’s impeachment was initiated in the National Assembly, where a substantial majority voted in favor of this action, leading to the Senate trial.
Gachagua, who hails from the influential Mount Kenya region, has vocally condemned the impeachment as a “political lynching,” a sentiment echoed by many of his supporters. Nonetheless, on Thursday evening, the Senate, with a two-thirds majority, voted to convict him on charges of corruption, inciting ethnic divisions, and undermining the government. The conviction on the first count was sufficient to mandate his removal.
Gachagua’s ousting marks a critical moment in Kenya’s political dynamics, especially considering that he was elected alongside Ruto just two years ago. It also signifies a period of consolidation for Ruto, following months of political infighting.
The tensions peaked earlier this year when Gachagua publicly criticized the head of the intelligence agency, implying bipartisan failures in addressing mass protests against unpopular tax reforms. This blame-game occurred after President Ruto had to retract significant tax hikes and reshuffle his Cabinet to include members from the opposition, showcasing the fractures within his administration.
Although Ruto has remained silent on Gachagua’s impeachment, the event is seen as an affirmation of his leadership stability amidst internal challenges.
During the impeachment proceedings, Gachagua’s lawyer, Elisha Ongoya, dismissed the charges as “either false, ridiculous or embarrassing.” Gachagua himself had indicated plans to contest the Senate’s decision should it favor impeachment.
Reports from health professionals indicate that Gachagua, aged 59, is currently receiving treatment for heart-related issues but is in stable condition. As the political community shifts its focus, speculations regarding potential successors have emerged. Among the names circulating are:
- Murang’a County Governor Irungu Kang’ata
- Kirinyaga County Governor Anne Waiguru
- Interior Minister Kithure Kindiki
- Foreign Affairs Minister Musalia Mudavadi
The ramifications of this political upheaval remain to be seen as Kenya navigates through these turbulent times.
Source
www.bbc.com