On Thursday, October 17, the Kenyan Senate voted to impeach Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, making him the first deputy president to be removed through this process since the introduction of the possibility in the revised 2010 constitution. A majority of senators approved the 11 charges brought against him, which included serious allegations such as gross violation of the constitution.
Speaker Amason Kingi announced that Gachagua ceases to hold office after two-thirds of the senators in accordance with article 145 (7), and Standing Order 78 (8) of the Senate upheld the charges.
In the charge, Gachagua was accused of promoting ethnic discrimination and undermining national unity through divisive public statements.
The accusations against Gachagua for the first charge included serious breaches of several constitutional articles, specifically Articles 10 (2)(A), (B), and (C); 27 (4); 73 (1)(A) and (2)(B); 75 (1)(C); and 129 (2), as well as Article 147 (1), in conjunction with Articles 131 (2)(C) and (D). In total, at least 54 senators supported the findings against him, underscoring the overwhelming consensus on the gravity of the allegations.
The proceedings leading up to the vote were dramatic, marked by high tensions and significant political theater. One of the most notable moments was Gachagua’s failure to present his defense, which many viewed as a critical misstep in his attempt to contest the charges. His absence during the defense phase raised questions about his commitment to addressing the allegations and ultimately may have swayed the senators’ opinions against him.
The impeachment carries considerable implications for Kenya’s political landscape. It not only sets a precedent for future actions against high-ranking officials but also signals a potential shift in the balance of power within the government. Gachagua’s removal could lead to increased scrutiny of other leaders and their conduct, reinforcing the accountability measures outlined in the constitution.
