Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua is set to confront a critical juncture on Tuesday afternoon as an impeachment motion against him will be tabled in Parliament.
Spearheaded by Kibwezi West MP Eckomas Mwengi, the motion comprises ten charges aimed at ousting Gachagua from office, highlighting deepening divisions within the Kenya Kwanza administration following two years in power.
Charges Against Gachagua
- Inciteful Remarks
The motion accuses Gachagua of making inflammatory statements that promote ethnic division, undermining national unity.
It specifically cites his controversial comments made in Kajiado in 2023, where he characterized the Kenyan government as a “company with shareholders.”
- Undermining the President and Cabinet
Gachagua is alleged to have contradicted government policies, notably opposing the Nairobi River Riparian Evacuation orders that were sanctioned by the Cabinet.
“He has publicly opposed measures that fall within his cabinet responsibilities,” Mwengi stated.
- Interference in Nairobi County Affairs
The Deputy President is charged with interfering in Nairobi County governance by allegedly inciting resistance to the relocation of Wakulima traders, actions that purportedly undermine devolution and disrespect the city’s leadership. - Attacks on the Judiciary
Mwengi claims Gachagua publicly criticized High Court Judge Esther Maina following her ruling on a sh.200 million forfeiture case involving him, actions that are said to threaten judicial independence. - Violating the Oath of Office
The motion cites violations of Gachagua’s oath to uphold the Constitution, arguing that his conduct is inconsistent with Article 148, which requires the Deputy President to perform his duties in accordance with the law. - Breach of the National Cohesion Act
Gachagua is accused of violating the National Cohesion and Integration Act through statements that incite ethnic hostility since his appointment. - Accumulating Wealth Illegally
The Deputy President faces allegations of illegally amassing sh. 5.2 billion in wealth, reportedly using family members as proxies and operating 22 companies to conceal the sources of his income. - Misleading the Public
Mwengi claims that Gachagua has misled the public with unfounded accusations of corruption against Judge Maina, for which he has not filed a formal petition for her removal. - Gross Misconduct
The motion highlights Gachagua’s remarks during a June press briefing where he criticized the National Intelligence Service for its failure to assess public sentiment.
He is also accused of colluding with cartels to the detriment of farmers.
- Bullying
Lastly, the MP alleges that Gachagua has intimidated public officials, including directing the Kenya Medical Supplies Agency to favor specific companies in tender awards.
He is also accused of pressuring contractors to reroute materials meant for public projects to a private venture linked to him.
The motion paints Gachagua’s actions as a potential trigger for ethnic discord, stating, “His behavior poses a ticking time bomb that could plunge the country into conflict.”
The outcome of this impeachment motion could have significant ramifications for the political landscape in Kenya as the Kenya Kwanza administration grapples with internal strife.
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