Kiambu Senator Karungo Thang’wa has expressed unwavering support, encouraging the politician to stay resilient amid his impeachment ordeal. The senator’s public message, posted on X (formerly Twitter), comes at a time when Gachagua is grappling with the political fallout following his recent ouster from office by both the National Assembly and the Senate.
Thang’wa, who represents the interests of the Mt Kenya region, made it clear that the entire community stands firmly behind Gachagua, a leader they believe has come a long way in his political journey. In his statement, the senator emphasized that while Gachagua’s challenges are monumental, his resilience is the key to overcoming the current crisis. Thang’wa invoked a powerful quote, “The gem cannot be polished without friction, nor man perfected without trials,” reinforcing the notion that adversity often strengthens those who face it.
The senator’s words carry deep significance, not only as a personal message to Gachagua but also as a rallying cry for the region. “You’ve come so far, and there’s a whole community behind you, rooting for your comeback. Hang in there brighter days are closer than you think,” Thang’wa added, offering hope that Gachagua’s political future remains intact despite the current challenges.
Gachagua’s impeachment marked a historic moment in Kenyan politics, following a motion of ouster tabled by Kibwezi West MP, Mwengi Mutuse, and supported by 281 members of the National Assembly. The charges against him were substantial, with accusations ranging from undermining the independence of the judiciary to gross misconduct and public attacks on the National Intelligence Service (NIS). The Deputy President’s fall from grace came after a series of contentious decisions, including allegations of involvement in corruption and mismanagement of public office.
Despite the overwhelming support for the impeachment motion in the National Assembly, Gachagua’s allies, including some members of his political base in Mt Kenya, vehemently opposed the ouster. They argue that his removal was politically motivated, seeking to remove him from power due to his growing influence in the region. In the Senate, the charges were upheld, further cementing Gachagua’s political downfall. A significant point of contention during the Senate’s deliberations was Gachagua’s absence from the plenary session. His lawyers, who walked out in protest after the Senate voted against extending the impeachment proceedings, stated that Gachagua had been hospitalized at Karen Hospital. Gachagua’s legal team, led by senior counsel Paul Mwite, later expressed plans to challenge the impeachment in court, seeking to halt the swearing-in of Kithure Kindiki as the new Deputy President.
Despite the legal battles and the political turbulence, Thang’wa’s message to Gachagua underscores the importance of perseverance. The senator’s call for resilience is not just about personal strength but also about the collective strength of the Mt Kenya community. This support comes at a critical time when Gachagua’s political future hangs in the balance, and the region, historically a powerhouse of political influence in Kenya, is keenly watching the unfolding events.
The impeachment of Gachagua has sparked intense debate across Kenya, raising questions about political loyalty, the independence of the judiciary, and the use of parliamentary procedures to settle political scores. As the case continues to unfold in court, many are wondering whether the former Deputy President will stage a comeback or if his political career will be permanently derailed.
For now, Gachagua’s allies, including Thang’wa, continue to offer support, hoping that the embattled politician can navigate the storm and return stronger. The case, set for a mention next year, will undoubtedly shape the political landscape in Mt Kenya and beyond, with many eyes on the outcome of this legal and political battle.
