Kenya’s Deputy President, Rigathi Gachagua, is hospitalized and cannot attend crucial Senate hearings on his impeachment. His lawyer, Paul Muite, informed the Senate about Gachagua’s serious condition during the proceedings, where he faces 11 charges.
Last week, the National Assembly voted to impeach Gachagua due to accusations of disloyalty and inflammatory public comments. Gachagua played a significant role in President William Ruto’s election, but he now faces criticism from some of Ruto’s allies. The Senate suspended the hearing and allowed Gachagua until 5 PM local time to appear and defend himself. He previously called the impeachment process a “political lynching” fueled by falsehoods.
Political analysts warn that Gachagua’s potential ousting could create backlash for Ruto, who has not commented on the impeachment. Many Kenyans view the process as politically motivated and a distraction from pressing issues, including recent protests against tax hikes that exposed widespread dissatisfaction with government policies.
Among the charges against Gachagua are claims that he incited ethnic hatred and amassed properties worth over $40 million since taking office. This is a stark contrast to his declared net worth of around $6 million before his appointment. Gachagua’s legal team argues that these allegations lack evidence and are largely speculative.
If the Senate votes to impeach, Gachagua would become the first Deputy President in Kenya removed from office under the 2010 constitution. The implications of such a decision could significantly affect Kenya’s political landscape.
