Kenya’s parliament voted on Tuesday to impeach Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua on charges of corruption and inciting ethnic hatred. Gachagua, who has denied all allegations, played a key role in President William Ruto’s 2022 election victory by securing support from central Kenya.
However, reports suggest a fallout between Gachagua and Ruto as political alliances shift.
Amid tensions, Gachagua urged lawmakers to “search your conscience” before the vote. Parliament voted 281 to 44 in favor of his impeachment, with one abstention.
Majority leader Kimani Ichung’wah accused Gachagua of violating eight constitutional provisions.
The next step involves the senate, which will consider the charges. If two-thirds of senators uphold the impeachment, Gachagua will be dismissed from office.
He has filed a court petition to halt the proceedings.
This development follows political unrest, with Ruto reshuffling his cabinet after nationwide protests in June and July over tax increases, which led to more than 50 deaths. Ruto has yet to comment on the impeachment.
A recent poll by TIFA Research showed that 41% of Kenyans support Gachagua’s impeachment, while 38% oppose it.