Rita Odafe
Following Gachagua’s impeachment by the Senate on Thursday, President William Ruto has put forth Kithuri Kindiki, the current Minister of Interior, as his replacement.
This significant political event has drawn national attention, especially given Kenya’s reputation as a stable democracy within the often volatile East African region.
Gachagua, who was Ruto’s partner in the highly competitive 2022 elections, has become the first deputy president to be impeached since the revised constitution came into effect.
The Senate’s decision to remove Gachagua came after they found him guilty on five out of eleven allegations, all while he was hospitalized and unable to attend the session.
The political ripple effects continued, as National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula revealed Kindiki’s nomination on Friday and called for parliamentary confirmation votes.
Kindiki, 52, an academic turned influential politician, had been widely viewed as a strong candidate for the deputy position, particularly following media reports.
His time as interior minister was not without controversy, facing backlash due to police conduct during anti-government protests that unfortunately led to deaths. This context adds to the scrutiny surrounding his new role.
Gachagua’s impeachment was marked by drama; he was hospitalized with chest pains just moments before the Senate convened.
His legal team sought a delay in the proceedings, which was rejected, causing them to leave in protest. Currently, Gachagua is reported to be stable but will remain in the hospital for observation and tests over the next couple of days.
This impeachment represents the climax of a contentious relationship between Gachagua and President Ruto, who had depended on Gachagua’s backing to capture the crucial Mount Kenya votes in the last election.
