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Kenya's Deputy President Faces Impeachment Trial Amid Political Turmoil

Photo : AFP

Kenya's parliament has officially initiated the impeachment trial of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, marking a crucial chapter in the country’s political landscape. This follows a decisive vote in the Assembly last week, where an overwhelming majority approved the motion for his removal from office. The two-day trial is currently underway in the Senate, which will ultimately decide Gachagua's fate.

Gachagua is facing 11 serious charges, including corruption, inciting ethnic divisions, and undermining government operations. He has consistently denied these allegations, asserting his innocence in the face of the accusations. The political turmoil surrounding Gachagua has intensified, particularly following a fallout with President William Ruto, who has chosen to remain silent on the issue.

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The trial is being conducted before the full Senate after an initial proposal to form an 11-member committee to investigate the charges was abandoned. Proceedings commenced with the reading of the charges against Gachagua, followed by opening statements from both the prosecution and the defense.

Analysts predict that Gachagua’s impeachment is likely to be upheld, as ruling party senators are expected to be joined by members from the main opposition, mirroring the support he faced during the lower house vote.

On Wednesday, beginning at 12:00 local time (09:00 GMT), the Assembly will present its evidence against Gachagua, including witness testimonies. This phase of the trial is expected to last three hours, followed by two hours allocated for cross-examination. The trial will continue on Thursday with the defense presenting its evidence and witnesses until late afternoon.

At the conclusion of the trial, senators will debate the motion for approximately two hours before a vote is conducted. This vote is scheduled for Thursday night at 20:30 local time. For Gachagua to be removed from office, at least two-thirds of the 67 Senate members must approve the motion. If the impeachment succeeds, he would be barred from holding public office in the future. It is anticipated that Gachagua will challenge the impeachment in court if it passes.

Despite his efforts to halt the impeachment process, Gachagua has faced significant legal challenges, with 26 court cases filed against the proceedings thus far. A judge ruled on Tuesday that the court would not interfere, affirming the Senate's right to proceed with its constitutional mandate. Shortly before the trial began, a three-judge panel similarly dismissed a request to halt the process.

Among the allegations against Gachagua is the claim that he acquired assets valued at 5.2 billion Kenyan shillings (approximately $40 million) within two years of taking office, allegedly through corrupt means. He has maintained that most of these properties stem from his late brother's estate.

Gachagua, a wealthy businessman from the politically influential Mount Kenya region, ascended to the role of deputy president in just five years, following his selection by Ruto as a running mate in the August 2022 elections. His tenure has been marred by previous corruption allegations, which were dismissed after he assumed office.

The impeachment trial has sparked widespread discussion among Kenyans and dominated media coverage in recent weeks. Many view the unfolding political drama as a distraction from pressing economic issues, particularly as citizens grapple with the high cost of living. In June, widespread protests erupted over unpopular tax hikes, revealing deep rifts within the political landscape and between Ruto and Gachagua.

Gachagua now faces accusations of undermining security agencies, particularly after remarks he made blaming the intelligence agency for the country’s challenges during a period of civil unrest. The outcome of this trial will not only determine Gachagua’s political future but may also have significant implications for the current administration as it navigates mounting public dissatisfaction.

Oct. 16, 2024 2:57 p.m. 422

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