Kenyans React with Mixed Emotions to the Impeachment of the Deputy President

The impeachment of Kenya’s Deputy President has sparked varied reactions across the country, with citizens expressing both support and opposition to the political development.

Kenyan lawmakers gave the green light to a motion on Tuesday to impeach the deputy president. This decision came after extensive discussions throughout the day and after Rigathi Gachagua addressed parliament, defending himself against multiple charges, including accusations of endorsing anti-government protests in June.

The motion for impeachment was passed with a 281-44 vote, significantly surpassing the constitutional requirement of 117 votes. It will now proceed to the parliament’s upper house for further debate and voting.

Nairobi resident Rose Mueni expressed that the allegations against Gachagua “lack grounds for impeachment.”

“Mueni added that these are merely political games, as many politicians have made larger mistakes than the deputy president if you listen closely.”

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John Mwangi, a resident of Nairobi, expressed that the impeachment isn’t “adding much value” for Kenyans. He further remarked that both the president and deputy president should have been impeached.

To finalize impeachment, it requires the support of two-thirds of senators in the upper house. The timing for that vote remains uncertain.

According to Kenya’s constitution, removal from office becomes automatic once it is approved by both chambers. However, Gachagua has stated that he would contest this decision in court.

The deputy president faces accusations of involvement in corruption and other irregularities, but he denies all the charges.

The discussion about his future has moved beyond parliament — last week, proponents and critics of the motion faced off in public forums after it was introduced to parliament by the ruling alliance.