The Curse of the Deputy Presidency: Rigathi Gachagua’s Impeachment and the Rift with President William Ruto
In the final term of former President Uhuru Kenyatta, a significant fallout between him and his then-deputy, now President William Ruto, set the stage for a political drama that has reverberated through Kenya’s corridors of power. The animosity was so palpable that President Kenyatta, having found comfort in his alliance with opposition leader Raila Odinga, publicly humiliated Ruto at events such as the BBI launch. During these events, Ruto and his allies were often booed by the crowd, while Kenyatta laughed and danced sarcastically.
In an interview with senior journalist Joe Ageyo, Ruto was asked about the potential for a similar fallout with his deputy, Rigathi Gachagua, if he became president. Ruto confidently replied, “It will not happen, I will not allow my deputy to be humiliated to the junior staff.” However, fast forward to 2024, and the political landscape tells a different story. Since his election in 2022, President Ruto and his Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua have experienced a significant fallout, culminating in Gachagua’s controversial impeachment.
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The Impeachment Process
The motion to impeach Gachagua was tabled by Kibwezi West Member of Parliament Eckomas Mwengi Mutuse, with 282 MPs voting in favor. The motion was then forwarded to the Kenyan Senate, where Gachagua was found guilty on five of eleven charges. On the final day of deliberations, Gachagua was supposed to appear before the Senate to answer questions. However, he fell ill and was hospitalized. His counsel requested more time for Gachagua to recover, citing his right to be heard. Despite this, the Senate voted to proceed with the impeachment process, and Gachagua was subsequently removed from office.
Post-Impeachment Accusations
Following his removal, Gachagua claimed that his only crime was being truthful to the president and advising him contrary to what Ruto wanted. He alleged that the president had attempted to assassinate him multiple times, though he provided no evidence to support these claims. When the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) asked Gachagua to record a statement regarding his allegations, he failed to appear. Gachagua also claimed he had been humiliated throughout the process.
A Return to Familiar Alliances
In a twist of irony, President Ruto has now aligned himself with Raila Odinga, the former opposition leader and prime minister. The two are now embroiled in a legal battle with Gachagua, who is contesting the impeachment process as unjust.
Conclusion
The political saga of Deputy Presidents in Kenya continues with Rigathi Gachagua’s impeachment, echoing the tumultuous relationship between Uhuru Kenyatta and William Ruto. The position of Deputy President seems cursed, with those holding it often finding themselves at odds with their presidents. As Gachagua fights his legal battles and President Ruto forges new alliances, the ever-evolving dynamics of Kenyan politics remain as unpredictable as ever.
This blog news story captures the unfolding drama in Kenya’s political arena, highlighting the contentious relationship between President William Ruto and his former Deputy Rigathi Gachagua. Stay tuned to KenyanIHome.ke for impartial and comprehensive coverage of this and other political developments in Kenya.
