The Senate has voted to remove Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua from office, marking a crucial moment in Kenya’s political landscape. The motion to oust Gachagua was initiated following the presentation of five out of eleven allegations brought forth by Mwingi West MP Mwengi Mutuse.
The decision came after Gachagua failed to appear before the Senate to defend himself, citing hospitalization for chest pain, as communicated by his lawyer, Paul Mwite. This absence prompted the Senate to expedite the removal process, reflecting the urgency and seriousness of the allegations.
Senate Speaker Amason Kingi announced the outcome of the vote, revealing a consensus among senators regarding the gravity of the charges against Gachagua. The session was marked by intense discussions, with many senators supporting the motion to remove the Deputy President from his position.
The Senators voted as follows on the 11 charges against the Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua;
Charge 1: Undermining national unity 53 Senators voted yes and 13 opposed
Charge 2: Undermining the President and Cabinet 28 supported and 39 opposed
Charge 3: Undermining devolution 19 supported and 46 opposed
Charge 4: Undermining independence of judges 51 supported and 16 opposed
Charge 5: Breaching oath of office and allegiance 49 supported and 16 opposed
Charge 6: Inflammatory and inciteful public utterances 47 supported and 18 opposed
Charge 7: Gross economic crimes 14 supported and 52 opposed
Charge 8: Misleading the public 27 supported 40 opposed
Charge 9: Conduct incompatible with status of office 46 supported 20 opposed
Charge 10: Insubordination towards the President 23 supported and 44 opposed
Charge 11: Bullying state and public officers 17 supported and 41 opposed
Passage of any one charge sends the holder of office home.
