In a surprising turn of events Rigathi Gachagua Kenyas recently impeached deputy president‚ has stated that his security protection team has been taken away. He made this claim on 10/20/24 warning that President William Ruto would be held responsible for any harm that might come to him.
Gachagua who dismisses the charges against him as politically-motivated‚ expressed concern about his safety. He told journalists‚ “Its the most unfortunate thing that has ever happened in this country that you can be so vicious to a man who helped you to be President“ referring to Ruto whose candidacy he supported in the elections about two years ago
The police spokeswoman Resila Onyango‚ didnt give an immediate comment saying she would look into Gachaguas statement about the security protection. Rutos spokesperson mentioned they would comment later
In Kenya its common for senior politicians security to be reduced after they leave office. However Gachagua argues his case is different as he has started a legal challenge to his impeachment and doesnt see his dismissal as final
Gachagua was impeached a few days ago on five out of 11 charges including:
- gross violation of the constitution
- stirring ethnic hatred
The motion was backed by opposition lawmakers and Ruto allies. Gachagua denied all accusations
While parliament approved Interior Minister Kithure Kindiki to replace Gachagua a court has put Kindikis swearing-in on hold pending legal challenges
Ruto who has had a falling-out with Gachagua in recent months hasnt commented on the impeachment proceedings. However during a national holiday celebration Ruto called for national cohesion and an end to “tribalism and exclusion“