Impeachment Motion Against Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua Set for Vote
As the impeachment motion against Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua approaches, legislators are gearing up to present their case in Parliament on Tuesday, October 1. The deputy president faces a series of serious allegations, including violations of national and international laws such as the Proceeds of Crime and Anti-Money Laundering Act, the National Cohesion and Integration Act, the Anti-Corruption and Economic Crimes Act, the Penal Code, and the Leadership and Integrity Act.
A key point of contention is Gachagua’s rapid accumulation of wealth within a short timeframe, which is linked to potential breaches of several laws, particularly the Proceeds of Crime and Anti-Money Laundering Act. Additionally, he is accused of violating the Constitution of Kenya, with five allegations of gross constitutional violations detailed in a document obtained by thefricanwatch.com.
The motion highlights a violation of Article 10, which pertains to the National Values and Principles of Governance. Gachagua’s public statements have been described as inciteful, reckless, and inflammatory, raising concerns about stirring ethnic hatred. Further accusations include breaches of Articles 147, 148, 174, 186, and 189, which outline the deputy president’s responsibilities as the principal assistant to the president.
For the motion to advance to a voting stage, the mover must present compelling evidence demonstrating that Gachagua has grossly violated the Constitution or any other law. A minimum of 233 votes in favor will be required to escalate the matter to the Senate. “The motion, brought under Article 150(1)(b) and (2) of the Constitution, necessitates the demonstration of gross constitutional violations or serious reasons to believe that the Deputy President has committed a crime under national or international law, or engaged in gross misconduct,” the impeachment statement outlines.
One of the most serious allegations is the charge of gross misconduct, particularly concerning Gachagua’s unjustifiable and unlawful attacks on Lady Justice Esther Maina, a High Court judge, and the Director General of the National Intelligence Service. This behavior is viewed as a blatant disregard for the oath of office he took. Moreover, Gachagua faces accusations of insubordination, having publicly contradicted the president’s policy statements and Cabinet decisions.
With the requisite 117 signatures for the motion already collected, the primary challenge now lies in substantiating the grounds for impeachment. Among the other allegations against Gachagua is the acquisition of property valued at over Ksh 5.7 billion during his time in office.
In a related development, the High Court on Monday denied a request for interim orders that would have halted the presentation of the impeachment motion in Parliament. As the political landscape intensifies, all eyes are on the upcoming parliamentary session, where the future of Deputy President Gachagua hangs in the balance.