In a historic move, the Senate of Kenya has officially removed Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua from office through impeachment. According to the Kenya Gazette, dated 17th October 2024, the impeachment was upheld following gross violations of the Constitution, as well as serious allegations concerning misconduct and undermining the office of the Deputy President.
The impeachment motion was brought forward by the National Assembly on 8th October 2024 and subsequently presented to the Senate for consideration. The Senate, in its proceedings on 9th October 2024, resolved to investigate the charges against Gachagua, leading to his formal removal from office on 17th October.
Charges Against Rigathi Gachagua: The Senate detailed several charges that led to Gachagua’s impeachment:
- Violation of Constitutional Articles: Gachagua was found guilty of gross violations of Articles 10, 147, 75, 129, and 160, among others. These articles pertain to leadership, national values, and the independence of the judiciary.
- Undermining the Institutional Independence of Judges: Gachagua’s interference with the judiciary was cited as a direct violation of Article 160, which protects judicial independence.
- Breach of the Oath of Office: The Deputy President was accused of failing to uphold his constitutional duties under Article 148, further eroding public trust.
- National Cohesion and Integration Act Violations: Gachagua was alleged to have committed offenses under sections 13(1)(a) and 62 of the National Cohesion and Integration Act, relating to promoting ethnicity and undermining national unity.
- Misconduct and Public Attacks on National Security: Gachagua was accused of undermining national security by publicly attacking the National Security Intelligence Service and its officers, compromising the dignity of his office.
The impeachment process marks a historic first in Kenya, making Gachagua the first deputy president to be impeached. The Senate’s decision signifies a critical moment in the nation’s political history, emphasizing accountability and adherence to the constitutional principles of leadership.
The motion to impeach Rigathi Gachagua was tabled by Kibwezi West MP Mwengi Mutuse and upheld by the Senate after two days of hearings, with the final ruling delivered on 17th October 2024. The Speaker of the Senate, Amason Jeffah Kingi, confirmed the impeachment through the gazette notice.
The decision brings an unprecedented conclusion to Gachagua’s political career, highlighting the importance of maintaining constitutional order and the rule of law in Kenyan governance.
