With Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s removal appearing imminent, intense competition for his replacement has begun in the Mt. Kenya region.
President William Ruto faces a delicate task in selecting a new deputy, should Parliament vote to oust Gachagua, who is known for his confrontational and divisive approach.
Prominent political figures from Mt. Kenya East and West are actively maneuvering behind the scenes to position themselves as contenders as discussions about Gachagua’s future intensify.
MPs are currently considering an impeachment motion that could end the career of the self-proclaimed “truthful man,” who has hinted at revealing sensitive information about the government.
Potential successors are already being discussed.
“The train has left the station, and unless the President intervenes, Gachagua’s fate is sealed,” political analyst Mark Bichachi said.
Among those mentioned as possible replacements are Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki, National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah, Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru, Laikipia East MP Mwangi Kiunjuri, and Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro.
Lands Cabinet Secretary Alice Wahome’s name has also surfaced.
If Ruto looks beyond Mt. Kenya, Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, Environment Cabinet Secretary Adan Duale, and Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka have been suggested.
Sources indicate that those vying for the position have held several secret meetings, the latest taking place on Wednesday evening at a hotel near Nairobi, following a similar gathering on Tuesday.
“We’re almost certain he’s going. It’s no longer a question of ‘if’ but ‘who,’” said a politician from the region, who requested anonymity due to the sensitive nature of the discussions. Mathira MP Eric Wamumbi declined to comment, stating that “the mountain is united.”
Kindiki, seen as a frontrunner, has garnered endorsements from Mt. Kenya leaders who want him to act as a link between the region and the government.
Gachagua’s potential exit is viewed as a ‘dream come true’ for Kindiki, who narrowly lost the running mate contest to Gachagua in 2022. He is regarded as competent and focused, rather than power-hungry.
Some leaders argue that since Kindiki was initially considered for the running mate position, he is best suited to step in now. “Kindiki deserves it. The people from Mt. Kenya East have always supported the West,” former Igembe North MP Joseph M’eruaki stated.
Waiguru, who chairs the influential Council of Governors, has also received backing from female governors under their G7 umbrella.
Governance expert Javas Bigambo emphasized that the decision rests with Ruto, noting that the ideal candidate must not only come from Mt. Kenya but also be someone capable of countering Gachagua’s influence in the region.
“Discussing the DP’s replacement is speculative; it’s ultimately up to the President, who has the authority to name the candidate for parliamentary approval,” Bigambo said. He added that to maintain his popularity and navigate the upcoming 2027 political season, Ruto needs to choose someone from Central Kenya who possesses national appeal.
Bichachi concurred that the next deputy should likely be from Central Kenya, as Ruto aims to appease his base.
However, he noted that if Ruto chooses a candidate from outside Mt. Kenya, Mudavadi could be a strong contender.
“If the President opts for a candidate from a different community, he might elevate someone from Mt. Kenya to the Prime Cabinet Secretary role,” Bichachi explained.
Daniel Maanzo suggested that the ongoing impeachment effort is driven by figures like Majority Leader Ichung’wah, who are eager to fill Gachagua’s role.
In a recent interview, Maanzo claimed that Ichung’wah has expressed interest in the deputy presidency and could benefit from Gachagua’s impeachment.
“President Ruto and DP Gachagua are on the same ballot; they should either serve their full term or both be replaced to give Kenya a fresh start. The President must consider this carefully, without yielding to pressures from the likes of Ichung’wah,” Maanzo said.
Close allies of Ruto have indicated that the next deputy will come from Mt. Kenya to quell any unrest from the region. Kapseret MP Oscar Sudi, a close confidant, stated that Mt. Kenya is central to Ruto’s administration and will not be overlooked.
“The majority of leaders from the mountain have no issues, except for one. Even Gachagua’s replacement will come from the mountain,” Sudi wrote on X.
Gachagua’s impeachment process officially began last Tuesday when Kibwezi West MP Mwengi Mutuse tabled the motion.
The embattled DP faces allegations of promoting tribalism and misusing his position for personal gain. He is also accused of contradicting government policies and inciting citizens against county directives.
The motion alleges that Gachagua has committed gross economic crimes, including conflicts of interest and abuse of office, as well as publicly undermining the National Intelligence Service.
The DP will have two hours to defend himself before MPs vote on the motion. If two-thirds of MPs support it, the special motion will move to the Senate for trial.
During the Senate trial, Gachagua will have an opportunity to present his case. If the charges are upheld by a majority of senators, he will be removed from office, allowing the President to nominate a successor subject to parliamentary approval.
