Kenya: The impeachment of Vice-President Rigathi Gachagua creates tension
Supporters and critics of Kenya’s Vice President, Rigathi Gachagua, clashed this Friday, October 4, 2024, during public forums concerning an impeachment motion filed in Parliament earlier this week by the ruling coalition. Gachagua stands accused of backing anti-government protests in June and being implicated in corruption and other misconduct—allegations he firmly denies.
The impeachment motion was introduced to Parliament last Tuesday, and Kenyans were given until this Friday to submit their public participation forms in their constituencies. Public forums were held across the country to debate the issue of impeachment.
In Nairobi, tensions escalated at a public forum held at the Bomas of Kenya, where clashes erupted between supporters of President William Ruto and those backing Gachagua.
Chairs were reportedly thrown in the auditorium, and activist Morara Kebaso, known for opposing stalled government projects, claimed to have been injured in the melee.
Similar incidents unfolded in several other regions hosting these forums. Reports indicate that both Gachagua and Ruto were elected on the same ticket.
Gachagua faces impeachment on ten charges, including corruption, ethnic favoritism, and opposing government policies.
Despite the allegations, Gachagua has declared his innocence and vowed to fight against the impeachment motion. The Senate is expected to take up the matter next Tuesday for deliberation.
