281 Kenyan Members of Parliament voted late Tuesday night (October 8) to impeach Rigathi Gachagua, who has served as Vice President since William Ruto’s election in 2022.
The vote saw 44 MPs against the motion, while one abstained. Following the announcement, scenes of jubilation erupted in the Parliament.
Gachagua faced allegations of supporting anti-government protests in June, as well as being implicated in corruption and other irregularities. He defended his actions during a televised address and in Parliament, insisting that he acted within the law.
According to Article 145(2A) of the Kenyan Constitution, “If a motion under clause 1 is supported by at least 2/3 of the National Assembly, the speaker shall inform the speaker of the Senate within two days,” said Speaker Moses Wetang’ula. If the Senate also endorses the motion, Gachagua would become the first deputy president to be impeached since the new constitution was enacted in 2010.
Chapter 9 of the Constitution outlines two scenarios for the removal of the Deputy President:
- Physical or mental incapacity to perform official duties.
- Impeachment.
Impeachment can occur on three grounds:
- A gross violation of the Constitution or any other law.
- Serious reasons to believe the Deputy President committed a crime under national or international law.
- Gross misconduct.
In a defense of his wealth, Gachagua asserted on Monday (October 7) that some properties cited in the impeachment motion belonged to his late brother. He also justified renovation costs for his official residence, stating it was in disrepair and required “dignified” restoration.
Speculation about Gachagua’s rift with President Ruto had been prevalent for months, with this impeachment highlighting the deepening divide between the two leaders. Amid unprecedented protests, many Kenyans have called for President Ruto to resign.
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