In a historic decision, Kenya’s Senate has voted to impeach Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, making him the first deputy president to be removed from office since the 2010 constitutional reforms. Gachagua was found guilty on five out of 11 charges, including corruption, money laundering, and ethnic divisiveness, in a tense session on Thursday.
The 59-year-old’s impeachment follows a similar vote by the National Assembly, despite his hospitalization with severe chest pains, which prevented him from testifying in his defense. His legal team’s request for a delay due to his condition was denied, leading to their protest walkout.
Many Kenyans believe the impeachment is politically motivated, pointing to strained relations with President William Ruto and the aftermath of anti-tax protests. Political analysts warn that the scrutiny applied to Gachagua may soon extend to Ruto, potentially deepening the country’s political tensions amidst ongoing economic struggles.