Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has recently addressed the swirling impeachment claims against him, downplaying the seriousness of the allegations and expressing confidence in his position. In a candid interview with Agikuyu vernacular media stations on Sunday, Gachagua shared his perspective on the ongoing political drama and the speculation surrounding his future in office.
The Deputy President acknowledged that he had heard about the impeachment claims but remained untroubled by them. “If speaking for my people will be the reason for my impeachment, I’m ready to go home. I’m still young,” Gachagua stated, emphasizing his willingness to leave office if it meant upholding his principles and representing his constituents effectively.
Gachagua’s comments come against a backdrop of political maneuvering, with claims suggesting that the recent inclusion of ODM leader Raila Odinga and his allies into the Kenya Kwanza government has fueled the impeachment efforts. According to Gachagua, there were initial claims that his opponents lacked the numbers to move forward with impeachment. However, with the addition of Odinga’s faction, the narrative has shifted to suggest that they might now have the political leverage needed to pursue his ouster.
Despite these allegations, Gachagua conveyed a sense of trust in President William Ruto’s assurances regarding Odinga’s role in the government. “Ruto did not tell me Raila was coming with his people to get rid of me, he said they were coming to help and I believed him,” Gachagua remarked. This trust, he asserted, is why he remains unconcerned about the impeachment efforts, viewing them as part of the broader political landscape rather than a serious threat to his tenure.
Additionally, Gachagua responded to accusations that MPs from the Mt Kenya region are behind the impeachment push. Describing this notion as shocking, he questioned the rationale behind such a move, given his consistent efforts to advocate for the needs of the Mt Kenya region. “My thinking is one, if it is our Mt Kenya people who are the ones after that motion, I would be so shocked because I don’t know why they would have a problem,” he said. He further argued that any attempt at impeachment should involve seeking support from the general public rather than relying solely on MPs. “They should get the signatures from Kenyans, not MPs,” he added, underscoring that it was the broader electorate, particularly in Mt Kenya, who had supported him and President Ruto.
The Deputy President’s remarks come amid a turbulent period, marked by recent anti-government protests and political unrest. Reports have surfaced of behind-the-scenes schemes and night meetings aimed at orchestrating his removal from office. Gachagua’s handlers have also been questioned by DCI detectives regarding their alleged involvement in these protests, which have added to the swirling controversy surrounding his administration.
In summary, Gachagua’s response to the impeachment claims reflects a combination of defiance and confidence. By dismissing the claims as politically motivated and emphasizing his commitment to representing his constituents, he aims to navigate through the current political turbulence with resilience. His stance suggests a readiness to confront political challenges head-on while maintaining a focus on his duties and responsibilities.
