Kenya's deputy president fights impeachment claims in senate

In a twist of events roughly 18 months ago‚ Rigathi Gachagua‚ Kenyas deputy president faced impeachment charges in a senate hearing. He strongly denied accusations of corruption inciting ethnic divisions‚ and backing anti-government protests that led to demonstrators storming the parliament building

This case could make Gachagua the first sitting deputy president in Kenyas history to be impeached‚ shedding light on the growing rift between him and President William Ruto. The situation is reminiscent of Rutos past troubled relationship with former president Uhuru Kenyatta‚ when Ruto served as deputy

Gachagua has suggested that the impeachment process has Rutos tacit approval‚ urging lawmakers to make their decision “without intimidation and coercion“. This political turmoil risks introducing more uncertainty for investors in East Africas commercial center

Court decisions allowed the parliament and senate to move forward with the impeachment debate‚ despite Gachaguas legal team raising concerns about irregularities. The impeachment motion‚ approved by parliament was forwarded to the senate where Gachaguas lawyers had two days to cross-examine witnesses

The senate requires a two-thirds majority to approve the impeachment motion. If approved by both chambers‚ removal from office is automatic under the Kenyan Constitution however‚ Gachagua has indicated he would challenge the action in court

Interestingly‚ Ruto who came to office claiming to represent Kenyas poorest citizens‚ has remained silent on the impeachment process. Early in his presidency‚ he stated he wouldnt publicly humiliate his deputy. Ruto has faced widespread criticism for his efforts to raise taxes to repay foreign creditors‚ leading to a cabinet shake-up and policy changes about 1.5 years ago