NAIROBI – Kenyan lawmakers are preparing to initiate impeachment proceedings against Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, accusing him of undermining the government, according to Kimani Ichungwah, the parliamentary majority leader. The move highlights growing tensions between President William Ruto and his deputy, adding to the government’s existing challenges following months of deadly protests over a disputed finance bill.
Ichungwah confirmed his support for the impeachment, stating that it was necessary to address concerns about internal sabotage within the government. Gachagua has recently expressed feelings of being sidelined and has denied any involvement in unrest linked to his name, describing the allegations as an attempt to tarnish his reputation ahead of potential impeachment.
Gachagua holds significant influence in Kenya’s central region, and efforts to remove him from office could spark discontent, potentially complicating Ruto’s administration further. The impeachment plans come after a series of protests that left over 50 people dead, marking one of Ruto’s biggest crises since assuming office in 2022. The protests were driven by opposition to tax hikes in the finance bill and demands for action against corruption and misgovernance.
In response to growing unrest, Ruto initiated a major cabinet reshuffle in July, including members of the opposition. However, critics argue that the reshuffle reflects a continuation of Kenya’s political tradition of co-opting opposition figures, rather than implementing substantial reforms.