John Adoyi
Kenya’s Deputy President, Rigathi Gachagua, has turned to quoting scripture as he faces historic impeachment by the National Assembly. In a stunning political development, Gachagua may become the first Deputy President in the East African nation’s history to be ousted from office.
He is facing serious charges of corruption and misconduct. The Kenya’s deputy president was also accused of supporting anti-government protests in June He has, however, denied all the charges.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelHours after the vote, which saw 281 MPs in favour of his removal against just 44 defending him, Gachagua took to social media to quote verses from the Bible, seeking solace in his faith. “1 Thessalonians 5:18: Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus,” he posted on X, formerly known as Twitter. He followed this with a message from Jeremiah: “Jeremiah 30:19: From them will come songs of thanksgiving and the sound of rejoicing. I will add to their numbers, and they will not be decreased; I will bring them honor, and they will not be disdained.”
The Deputy President faced 11 charges, including gross violation of the constitution, undermining President William Ruto, and promoting ethnicity. Gachagua, 59, known as “Riggy G,” has vehemently denied any wrongdoing, describing the allegations against him as “outrageous” and “sheer propaganda.” Despite his denials, he made a surprising appeal on Sunday, asking for forgiveness from Ruto and other MPs for any offenses committed during his tenure, although he clarified that this was not an admission of guilt.
His attempts to halt the impeachment through numerous court cases were unsuccessful, and only 233 votes were necessary for the motion to pass. Resigned to his fate, Gachagua stated, “It is well,” as he faced the consequences of the assembly’s decision.
With impeachment process having been concluded at the Lower House of the National Assembly, the next stage is for the Upper House (the Senate) to hear the charges at its session on Wednesday.
According to reports, the Senate has 10 days to conclude the proceedings and make a decision, which requires the support of at least two-thirds of senators.
If the Senate also approves the motion, Gachagua would become the first deputy president to be removed from office by way of impeachment since it was introduced in Kenya’s revised 2010 constitution.
President William Ruto is yet to comment on the impeachment proceedings.
