Kenyan Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua Ousted Amid Impeachment Drama

The Kenyan Senate has voted to impeach Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, with proceedings continuing despite his absence due to health issues. This decision follows months of political tension and responds to allegations including corruption and inciting divisions.

In a remarkable day in Kenya's political arena, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua was ousted from his position while receiving treatment in a hospital. Elected just over two years ago alongside President William Ruto, Gachagua faced impeachment proceedings but was unable to appear due to chest pains reportedly requiring hospitalization at The Karen Hospital.

On the day scheduled for his defense in the Senate, the Deputy President failed to attend, prompting his lawyer to request a postponement. The Senate, however, opted to proceed with the trial, demonstrating their resolve to expedite his removal amidst a backdrop of political discord that has been brewing since Gachagua’s fallout with President Ruto months prior.

The National Assembly had previously voted overwhelmingly in favor of impeachment, paving the way for the Senate’s decisive action. Gachagua, a prominent businessman from central Mount Kenya, branded the proceedings as a "political lynching" as he faced a total of 11 charges, including accusations of corruption and inciting ethnic tensions.

As the trial unfolded, Gachagua's defense team chose to exit the chamber rather than continue absent his client. Eventually, senators voted by a large majority, meeting the required two-thirds, to convict him, effectively terminating his term as Deputy President. This outcome not only consolidates Ruto's control over the government but also puts an end to a turbulent phase of infighting at the upper echelons of Kenyan politics.

The situation escalated in June when Gachagua publicly criticized the head of the intelligence agency, attributing a lack of communication regarding widespread protests against tax hikes to governmental shortcomings. In response to the unrest, President Ruto had to revoke the controversial taxation measures, leading to the reshuffling of his cabinet.

While Gachagua's legal representation labeled the accusations against him as "false and ridiculous," the political landscape in Kenya continues to evolve dramatically. Reports have surfaced regarding potential successors to his position, signaling the urgency of a leadership transition as Gachagua recovers. With numerous figures being considered for the role, including Governors and Ministers, Kenya's political scene remains both unpredictable and charged with tension.