Kenya: The Senate set to vote on deputy President Gachagua’s impeachment amid corruption allegations

The Senate of Kenya is poised to vote on the potential removal of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua following the second day of his impeachment trial. Facing 11 charges, including corruption and inciting ethnic divisions, Gachagua is defending himself before the upper house, where two-thirds of lawmakers must vote in favor to oust him.

The impeachment process began after a majority of MPs in the National Assembly approved the motion, initiated by lawmaker Mwengi Mutuse.

Mutuse accused Gachagua of violating the constitution and enriching himself through corrupt means, alleging the acquisition of assets worth 5.2 billion Kenyan shillings ($40m) in just two years.

Gachagua has denied the charges, claiming that much of the wealth comes from his late brother’s estate.

During the trial, evidence was presented regarding Gachagua’s alleged interference in government contracts and his remarks about governance favoring only those who voted for the ruling party. His defense team labeled the accusations as baseless.

As Gachagua continues to defend himself, speculation mounts about his possible replacements, with governors Irungu Kang’ata and Anne Waiguru, along with ministers Kithure Kindiki and Musalia Mudavadi, being suggested as successors.

The Senate is expected to vote on the impeachment shortly, with Gachagua likely to challenge the decision if passed.