By: Chioma Madonna Ndukwu
Kenya’s Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has been hospitalized and could not attend his impeachment hearing due to serious illness, according to his lawyer, Paul Muite, who informed the Senate. Gachagua was facing 11 charges, including allegations of inciting ethnic tensions and acquiring properties worth over $40 million since taking office. His legal team contends that there is “no solid proof” to support these claims.
Following a vote by the National Assembly to impeach him, Gachagua has been criticized by some of President William Ruto’s allies for being disloyal. Senate Speaker Amason Kingi adjourned the hearing, giving Gachagua until 5:00 PM to appear. Gachagua previously stated that the impeachment is “a politically driven attack based on lies.”
Political analysts warn that if Gachagua is removed, it could provoke public outrage and increased scrutiny of President Ruto. Many Kenyans perceive the impeachment as a diversion from pressing issues, such as the recent anti-tax protests. If two-thirds of the Senate approves the impeachment, Gachagua would become the first deputy president removed under the 2010 constitution.
Source: Africanews
