Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua on Friday strongly rebuked Members of Parliament (MPs) reportedly involved in a plot to impeach him, asserting that only the Kenyan electorate can remove him from office. Addressing a charged crowd at Wakulima Market in Nairobi, Gachagua dismissed the claims of his impeachment as mere intimidation tactics from disgruntled politicians. His bold statements reflected his confidence in the support of the people, vowing to continue his work for the nation without yielding to pressure from political adversaries.
Defiant in the Face of Bribery Allegations
In his speech, Gachagua alleged that some MPs had been bribed to back his impeachment bid, insinuating that certain forces within the political establishment were funding this effort to undermine his leadership.
“They brought together MPs and gave them money. They bribed them to intimidate me,” he claimed, without naming specific individuals. The deputy president’s accusations reflect an ongoing power struggle within Kenya’s political landscape, where alliances and rivalries often shift, especially in the run-up to major political decisions. However, Gachagua was quick to point out that no amount of bribery or coercion would succeed in forcing him out of office.
Emphasizing the People’s Mandate
One of Gachagua’s key points during the rally was that his legitimacy stems from the people of Kenya, not from MPs. He reminded the crowd that he was democratically elected by the people, and it is only through their will that his position can be challenged or revoked.
“I was elected by Kenyans. It is those Kenyans who can remove me from the seat when the time comes,” he stated emphatically.
His comments seem to be aimed at solidifying his base and reinforcing the notion that he serves the people, not the political elites seeking to undermine his authority. By framing the impeachment talks as an attack on the voters who supported him, Gachagua is positioning himself as a defender of the electorate’s voice.
A Call for Responsible Politics
The Deputy President also warned that the political games being played by his detractors were dangerous for the stability of the country. He urged those plotting against him to reconsider their actions for the sake of national unity and progress.
“Leaders should be careful with the kind of politics they are playing so as not to destroy the country. After five years, people will go to the polls. It’s time to work, not time to hold meetings in hotels,” Gachagua advised.
His statement underscores the need for political leaders to focus on development and governance rather than personal rivalries and power struggles. By calling for action rather than distraction, he was sending a message that the country’s development should come before partisan interests.
A Show of Solidarity
At the rally, Gachagua was accompanied by Starehe MP Amos Mwago, who received praise for distancing himself from the group of MPs reportedly supporting the impeachment efforts. Gachagua thanked Mwago for his loyalty and encouraged others to do the same.
“And when you go to the grassroots, I know people from Nyandarua and Murang’a are here, tell them to leave me alone,” he urged, highlighting that he still enjoys significant support from his political stronghold in the Mt Kenya region.
Reflecting on the 2022 Elections
Gachagua used the occasion to reflect on the 2022 general elections, reminding the audience that Mt Kenya overwhelmingly supported President William Ruto without any coercion. He stressed that this support was genuine and that those attempting to undermine his position should respect the will of the people.
“Those plotting must respect us. Do not try us,” he warned. “Also, those insulting me should know that they are not insulting Gachagua but the people who voted for him.”
His remarks highlight the delicate balance within Kenya’s political scene, particularly regarding the Mt Kenya region’s role in Ruto’s administration. Gachagua’s steadfast defense of his position reveals his determination to maintain influence within the region, even in the face of internal opposition.
Conclusion
Rigathi Gachagua’s defiant stance against the impeachment plot serves as a reminder of the deep-rooted divisions within Kenya’s political class. However, by framing the debate as a battle between the elites and the common people, Gachagua is not only strengthening his base but also shifting the narrative toward a broader discourse on democratic representation and leadership accountability. As the political landscape continues to evolve, Gachagua’s focus on the people’s mandate may prove to be a significant factor in how this drama unfolds.
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