Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has made history as the first sitting DP in Kenya to face impeachment.
On October 8, 2024, 281 MPs voted in favor of his removal, while only 44 opposed the motion
Gachagua faces a series of serious allegations, including gross constitutional violations and undermining President Ruto.
Gachagua’s impeachment now transitions to the Senate, who will determine the fate of his political career.
Senate’s Role in DP Gachagua’s Impeachment Motion
The Senate will convene to hear the impeachment charges on Thursday September 10. This is after Speaker Moses Wetang’ula notified Senate Speaker Amason Kingi of the National Assembly’s decision to impeach the DP.
The Senate has two options: they can either address the matter in a full session or form a special committee to investigate the charges in detail.
If a special committee is created, it will have ten days to gather evidence and present its findings. Gachagua will have the opportunity to defend himself throughout this process.
After the investigation, the Senate will hold a debate on the findings. For Gachagua to be removed from office, a two-thirds majority, or at least 45 of the 67 senators, must vote in favor of the impeachment.
If they do, he will be immediately ousted from his position.
On the other hand, if the Senate does not achieve the required majority, Gachagua will remain in office.
Should the Senate vote to impeach him, Gachagua’s legal team of 20 lawyers is likely to challenge the decision in court. They may argue that political rivalries and procedural flaws drove the impeachment.
The outcome of this impeachment process will not only determine Gachagua’s future but also set a precedent for political accountability in Kenya. As the situation unfolds, the nation will be watching closely to see how this unprecedented event shapes the political landscape.
By Vivian K.