On Tuesday, August 8th, 2024, 281 Members of Parliament cast their votes to impeach Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. Among these members was Kirima Ngichine, the MP for Imenti Central, who has since voiced his concerns following the vote.
Ngichine stated that President William Ruto had promised MPs that if they voted to impeach Gachagua, Interior Cabinet Secretary Professor Kithure Kindiki would become the new deputy president. However, during a public rally in Meru today, Ngichine expressed doubts about this promise. He urged the Senate, as they prepare to hear Gachagua’s defense, not to repeat the mistake made by the National Assembly.
“Ruto persuaded us to impeach Gachagua by promising that Kindiki would assume the position. However, after the impeachment, he has changed his stance,” stated MP Kirima Ngichine.
As Gachagua prepares to face the Senate next week, political tension is escalating. He is set to defend himself before the Senate on Wednesday and Thursday. Following his defense, the Senate will decide whether to uphold the National Assembly’s decision to impeach him. If they do, Gachagua will officially be removed from his position as deputy president.
In anticipation of the Senate’s decision, discussions about potential replacements for Gachagua have already started. While Professor Kithure Kindiki is a prominent candidate, other leaders are also being considered, including Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, MP Mwangi Kiunjuri, National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah, and Kirinyaga Governor Ann Waiguru.
