Kenya's Deputy President faces impeachment as political tensions rise. The high court refers the case to the Chief Justice for review
Digital Worldwide News | October 11th, 2024
By DWN reporter
Kenya’s Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua finds himself at the center of a political storm. After facing a motion of impeachment brought against him by parliament on 11 charges, including allegations of corruption and ethnic incitement, the case has now been escalated to the Chief Justice. With tensions running high, both in parliament and across the country, this case is set to become one of Kenya’s most divisive political events in recent memory.
But this isn't just a story playing out in the courtrooms and parliamentary halls. It's also igniting fierce debates on social media, where Twitter, Facebook, and TikTok users have been sharing their thoughts, often with sharp humor and biting commentary.
Kenya’s high court made a significant ruling on October 11th, announcing that Deputy President Gachagua’s impeachment case would be referred to Chief Justice Martha Koome. The move came after the parliament voted on the charges earlier that week. Justice Lawrence Mugambi, presiding over the initial hearing, called for a three-judge panel to review the case, citing immense public interest.
The charges, 11 in total, range from Gachagua enriching himself through corrupt means to making inflammatory comments that stirred ethnic tensions. Gachagua, however, denies all allegations, labeling them as part of a politically motivated attack.
Across social media, reactions have been swift and polarized. Supporters of Gachagua see this as a political witch-hunt, while critics believe his comments and actions warrant his removal.
The deputy president hasn’t minced words in his defense. Gachagua described the impeachment motion as a “choreographed political lynching.” According to court documents, he believes the charges are baseless and have been manufactured by his political opponents to tarnish his reputation.
The absence of key politicians during the parliamentary vote only fueled the speculation. Some Kenyans questioned why prominent figures were missing from such a crucial decision, further deepening the divide between Gachagua’s supporters and detractors.
FootballClips @SG_Miano · Oct 10
“Gachagua Gone: After calling the government a 'shareholding entity' and fanning tribalism, DP Rigathi Gachagua has resigned. His impeachment passed with 281 votes. Half Term DP #GachaguaResigns Kama MbayaMbaya.”
These comments refer to one of the central accusations against Gachagua: his incendiary remarks that likened the government to a corporation where those who supported the ruling coalition deserved the lion's share of public jobs and development projects. For many, this was seen as fanning tribal divisions, one of the country’s most sensitive issues.
The hashtag #GachaguaResigns started trending almost immediately, with users like @SG_Miano mocking the deputy president’s downfall, while others lamented the state of Kenyan politics.
The strained relationship between Deputy President Gachagua and President William Ruto has been no secret. Though the two campaigned together in the 2022 elections, cracks in their alliance have been visible for months. Gachagua’s controversial comments and the subsequent protests against rising taxes and the high cost of living further alienated him from the president.
The People’s Watchman @bonifacemwangi · Oct 10
“Dictatorship is loading in Kenya, and we must stop it! As you celebrate the circus of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s impeachment, please note that he won’t be going to jail, nor will he lose the money and property he is accused of stealing. This was a dry run for President…”
This tweet captures a sentiment shared by many Kenyans: distrust in the political elite. While Gachagua faces charges, there are widespread fears that justice may not be served. Many believe that this impeachment is merely a distraction from deeper issues of governance and corruption, and that the real target might be President Ruto himself.
As the case moves to the Senate for further debate and a final vote on Gachagua’s fate, the nation waits with bated breath. The Senate is expected to vote on whether or not to dismiss the deputy president next week. If the Senate votes to impeach, it would mark the first time in Kenya’s history that a sitting deputy president has been removed from office.
But what happens next? If Gachagua is ousted, it could significantly reshape Kenya’s political landscape ahead of the next election cycle. His removal would send a powerful message to politicians across the country, warning them that no one is above the law. However, it could also deepen the political rifts that have emerged in recent years, especially if his supporters feel that this is a targeted attack rather than a just outcome.
The public response to Gachagua’s impeachment has been split. While some argue that the deputy president deserves to face the consequences of his actions, others believe that parliament should focus on more pressing issues, like the economy.
With the country grappling with economic hardships, many feel that political infighting is only distracting from the real issues. Calls for both Gachagua and Ruto to step down have gained momentum, with critics accusing both leaders of prioritizing their own interests over those of the people.
This impeachment case is more than just a political spectacle—it’s a reminder of the delicate balance of power in Kenyan politics. For many, it’s an opportunity to reflect on the accountability of leaders, the role of the judiciary, and the responsibility of politicians to serve the people.
As Kenya watches this case unfold, one thing is clear: the outcome will have lasting implications for the country’s political future. Whether Gachagua stays or goes, this moment will be remembered as a defining chapter in Kenya’s political history.
Stay tuned for updates as the story continues to develop. Public reactions, expert insights, and more twists are sure to follow in this high-stakes political drama.