Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua Faces Imminent Impeachment as Over 116 MPs Sign Motion

Kenya's political landscape is on the verge of a seismic shift as Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua faces the threat of impeachment, with over 116 Members of Parliament (MPs) already backing the motion. The move, spearheaded by a bipartisan coalition of MPs, is rapidly gaining momentum and could lead to a political showdown that risks destabilizing the Kenya Kwanza government and altering the dynamics ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The impeachment motion, expected to be tabled in the National Assembly, accuses Gachagua of multiple constitutional violations, including gross misconduct, divisive politics, and undermining national security protocols. His vocal criticism of key figures, such as National Intelligence Service (NIS) Director-General Noordin Haji, and opposition to the contentious Finance Bill 2024, have further fueled the push to remove him from office.

The battle over Gachagua's political future comes as President William Ruto attends the United Nations General Assembly in New York, leaving his camp scrambling to build a strong enough case to oust the Deputy President before his return. National Assembly Deputy Majority Leader Owen Baya confirmed that the motion is "picking up speed," adding, "We have built a watertight case."

Should the impeachment motion succeed, it would not only dislodge Gachagua from office but could also disqualify him from running for the presidency in 2027, potentially ending his political career. Article 150 of the Constitution allows for the impeachment of a Deputy President for gross violations of the law, misconduct, or unlawful activity.

Implications for Kenya Kwanza Government and National Stability

Gachagua’s removal could weaken the influence of the Mt. Kenya voting bloc within the ruling coalition, and expose cracks in the Kenya Kwanza alliance. This would come at a time when the government is grappling with economic challenges like rising inflation, unemployment, and public discontent over austerity measures introduced by the Finance Bill 2024.

Political analysts warn that impeachment could plunge the government into a crisis, diverting attention from pressing national issues. "Kenya is facing critical economic challenges, and political instability at this juncture could strain public confidence and affect service delivery," said political analyst Dr. Jane Ndungu.

Behind-the-Scenes Manoeuvring

In an effort to outmanoeuvre his opponents, Gachagua is reportedly holding closed-door meetings with loyalists at his official Karen residence, weighing his options which include resignation, mounting a political defense, or striking a deal with President Ruto. Meanwhile, Ruto’s allies, led by Senate Majority Leader Aaron Cheruiyot, are reportedly lobbying to ensure that the motion meets the threshold of 117 signatures required to proceed.

The next few days will be crucial as MPs prepare to decide Gachagua’s fate, a decision that could not only reshape the country’s political trajectory but also test the strength of President Ruto's leadership. Should the motion pass in the National Assembly, it will move to the Senate for further scrutiny.

If successful, this impeachment will mark a historic moment in Kenya’s democracy, with ripple effects that could be felt across all levels of government. As Kenya watches, the fate of its Deputy President and the political future of the Kenya Kwanza government hang in the balance.