Makueni Senator Dan Maanzo has suggested that President William Ruto is facing significant pressure from his allies to remove Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, claiming that such a move is politically motivated to further their personal interests.
In an interview on DayBreak, Maanzo pointed to National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah as a key figure interested in replacing Gachagua, asserting that this group would benefit from his ouster.
Maanzo expressed concerns that Ruto’s inner circle is intent on reserving the Deputy President’s seat for the Mt. Kenya region, positioning themselves strategically for the upcoming 2027 General Election.
“President Ruto and DP Gachagua are on the same ballot; they should either serve their full term together or both step aside for a fresh start in Kenya.
The President must carefully consider this issue and resist the pressures from the likes of Ichung’wah,” he stated.
The senator highlighted the political climate, noting, “The president is under considerable pressure from certain individuals.
Ichung’wah is interested in the deputy presidency, and there are discussions about replacing Gachagua with another Kikuyu.
This situation reflects our collective guilt regarding tribalism.”
Maanzo urged the president to rise above the divisive political narratives being pushed by some MPs and to work towards unifying the country.
“The president has a responsibility to hold this nation together and be a symbol of national unity, rather than engage in the petty politics of MPs who are not serving their constituents,” he emphasized.
He further alleged that the MPs’ grievances against Gachagua stem from their disappointment over the lack of handouts.
“In Kenya, everyone has some level of tribalism.
What we are witnessing is a form of mob justice against Gachagua.
If the issue is his wealth, he should be allowed to declare and clarify it,” he remarked.
Maanzo’s comments resonate with opposition figures who have warned Ruto that he could be the next target if Gachagua’s impeachment succeeds.
The motion, introduced by Kibwezi West MP Mwengi Mutuse, cites 11 grounds for Gachagua’s impeachment, including gross violations of the Constitution, corruption, and undermining the presidency.
The motion is currently undergoing public participation and is set for debate in the National Assembly on October 8, 2024.
Tragic Loss As Kenya High School Teacher Dies By Suicide In Nairobi
