In a dramatic turn of events in Kenyan politics, ousted Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has openly criticized President William Ruto, labeling him as “vicious” and warning that his life may be in jeopardy. Gachagua was impeached by the Senate on five out of 11 charges, although a court order has temporarily halted the process of appointing his successor.
Expressing his shock and betrayal, Gachagua stated, “I am shocked by how vicious a man I helped to be president… could be so vicious against me.” He revealed that his security had been revoked and that his staff had been placed on compulsory leave, heightening his concerns for his safety. “If anything happens to me or my family, President William Ruto must be held to account,” he warned, alluding to previous assassination attempts against him.
Gachagua’s health took a downturn just before his impeachment trial, suffering from severe chest pains. Despite this, the Senate proceeded with the impeachment, finding him guilty of threatening judges and promoting ethnically divisive politics, although he was acquitted of corruption and money-laundering charges.
In response to Gachagua’s impeachment, President Ruto swiftly nominated Interior Minister Kithure Kindiki as his replacement. However, a High Court intervened shortly after, suspending the appointment process, and a three-judge bench is set to hear the case soon.
Gachagua accused Ruto of violating court orders by withdrawing his security detail while still holding the position of deputy president. He lamented, “I don’t understand this level of viciousness,” emphasizing the gravity of the situation he finds himself in.
This unprecedented impeachment marks a significant moment in Kenyan politics, as Gachagua is the first deputy president to be removed from office through impeachment since the introduction of this process in Kenya’s 2010 constitution. As tensions rise, the political landscape remains uncertain, with Gachagua’s future and the implications for Ruto’s administration still unclear.