Kenya’s Senate has voted to impeach Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, marking an unprecedented political event that could lead to a significant crisis and unrest in the nation, which is generally regarded as a stable democracy in a volatile region.
The impeachment follows widespread protests earlier this year against a finance bill that threatened to increase the cost of living. Analysts suggest that this move may provide President William Ruto an opportunity to consolidate power by distancing himself from Gachagua, who has become viewed as a liability.
This action could also exacerbate ethnic tensions among Kenya's ruling elite, as both Ruto and Gachagua belong to the Kalenjin and Kikuyu ethnic groups, respectively. Historically, leaders from these groups have collaborated to secure political power, and Gachagua’s removal may create friction between them.
Murithi Mutiga, Africa program director at the International Crisis Group, stated that Gachagua’s substantial support base may perceive his impeachment as a betrayal, leading to potential political repercussions for Ruto.
Many Kenyans perceive the impeachment proceedings as politically motivated, diverting attention from pressing issues such as corruption, rising debt, and unemployment. Political experts noted that Ruto’s ruling coalition, which holds a majority in Parliament, likely supported the impeachment.
Observers anticipate that discontent against Ruto’s administration will resurface following the impeachment. Protests against the government have already occurred in various locations, including universities and Nairobi's international airport, with calls on social media for Ruto’s own impeachment.
The Senate voted to impeach Gachagua on five out of eleven charges, including corruption and undermining judicial independence. Gachagua has denied the allegations, claiming he is being treated unfairly. He did not testify during the Senate hearings due to health issues, prompting his defense team to protest the proceedings.
Following the impeachment, Senate Speaker Amason Kingi announced that Gachagua would cease to hold office. Gachagua is expected to challenge the impeachment in court.
On Friday, President Ruto nominated Kithure Kindiki, the interior minister, to replace Gachagua. Although Kindiki belongs to an ethnic group that typically aligns with Gachagua’s, concerns have been raised about his potential vulnerability should he fall out of favor with Ruto.
Activists have criticized Kindiki for allegedly supporting police brutality during recent protests, which resulted in numerous casualties and human rights violations.
The National Assembly approved Kindiki’s nomination on Friday afternoon. Gachagua, who became deputy president two years ago, was chosen by Ruto for his political connections and mobilization skills.
Relations between Ruto and Gachagua have soured in recent months, particularly after accusations that Gachagua supported anti-tax protests. Ruto has also formed an alliance with opposition leader Raila Odinga, which many believe contributed to Gachagua’s impeachment.
While clashes between Kenyan presidents and their deputies are not uncommon, Gachagua is the first deputy president to be impeached under Kenya’s 2010 Constitution. This event is viewed as a demonstration of the strength of Kenya’s institutions, according to Mutiga.
The impeachment leaves Kenya in uncharted territory, with many observers keenly watching how Gachagua and his supporters will respond in the coming weeks.