At least 40 MPs from Mt. Kenya have voted to impeach Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, signaling a potentially critical moment in his political career. His impeachment hearing in the Senate starts Wednesday, putting his influence in his home region under intense scrutiny.
To avoid being ousted, Gachagua needs the support of at least 23 out of 67 Senators. His waning support appears to be a significant vulnerability.
During former President Uhuru Kenyatta’s administration, any attempts to remove Deputy President William Ruto were abandoned due to his strong backing from Rift Valley leaders. A recent analysis revealed that only 19 MPs from Mt. Kenya voted to support Gachagua.
It’s understood that the hostility directed at Gachagua from his own constituents has encouraged MPs from other regions to back the impeachment motion. “From our perspective, this is largely a fight for Mt. Kenya Kwanza MPs,” noted a senior minority lawmaker.
A substantial majority of 282 MPs supported the ouster motion led by Kibwezi West MP Mwengi Mutuse, with 18 lawmakers abstaining and four seats currently vacant.
The call for impeachment came from across the former Central province and Mt. Kenya East. Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah led the charge, describing Gachagua as having “a black heart.”
Notable MPs voting against Gachagua include Githua Wamacukuru (Kabete), Jane Kagiri (Laikipia Woman Rep), and Mwangi Kiunjuri (Laikipia East). From Mt. Kenya East, those in favor of his removal include Rindikiri Mugambi (Buuri) and Moses Kirima (Central Imenti).
Several MPs from outside Mt. Kenya also supported the motion, including Innocent Momanyi (Bobasi) and Wilberforce Oundo (Funyula). Some MPs who had previously supported Gachagua reversed their stance, particularly after facing backlash within their region.
Political analysts suggest that the vote reflected broader regional tensions and discontent with Gachagua’s leadership, particularly his approach to tribalism and personal relationships.
Despite this setback, Gachagua still has supporters, including Gathoni Wamuchomba (Githunguri) and George Koimburi (Juja). However, some MPs argue that their colleagues who supported the motion have ignored the concerns of their constituents.
