October 4th 2024.
On Friday, there was a heated clash between supporters and opponents of Kenya's deputy president, Rigathi Gachagua, during public forums held to discuss an impeachment motion against him. This motion was introduced in parliament by the ruling alliance earlier in the week, accusing Gachagua of supporting anti-government protests and partaking in corrupt activities. However, Gachagua has strongly denied these allegations.
The process for Gachagua's impeachment began on Tuesday when a motion was proposed in parliament and Kenyans were given until Friday to submit their opinions through public participation forms. In various constituencies across the country, public forums were held to gather input from the community on the matter.
In the capital city of Nairobi, a public forum at the Bomas of Kenya turned chaotic as supporters of President William Ruto clashed with those in favor of Gachagua. The auditorium was filled with thrown chairs and activist Morara Kebaso, known for exposing government projects that have stalled, reported being injured in the midst of the chaos.
In Nyeri county, located in central Kenya, police were forced to intervene as supporters of the deputy president chanted that there would be no president if Gachagua was impeached. It is important to note that Gachagua and President Ruto were elected together on a joint ticket.
In Nyandarua county, opponents of the deputy president were called out as traitors and were even chased out of a community hall during a public forum. It is clear that tensions are high and emotions are running strong on both sides of this debate.
The impeachment motion against Gachagua was signed by 291 legislators, exceeding the constitutional requirement of 117 signatures. However, some of those who initially signed the motion from Gachagua's home turf are now retracting their support after hearing different views from their constituents.
One woman expressed her belief that if Gachagua is found guilty, then his boss, President Ruto, should also be held accountable. However, the deputy president has continuously maintained his innocence and has vowed to fight against the impeachment motion.
On Thursday, the high court refused to stop the public participation process and instead set a date for the hearing next Wednesday. President Ruto has yet to publicly comment on the matter, but he has previously stated that he will not publicly humiliate his deputy, alluding to the strained relationship he had with his predecessor Uhuru Kenyatta during their second term in office.
The senate is scheduled to hear the impeachment motion on Tuesday of next week, and the outcome of this decision will undoubtedly have a significant impact on both the deputy president and the country as a whole.
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