Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua Addresses Impeachment Rumors and Government Challenges
Gachagua Downplays Impeachment Rumors
NAIROBI, Kenya, August 4 – Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has addressed the circulating rumors regarding his potential impeachment, expressing his lack of concern over the matter. During a joint interview at his official residence in Karen, Gachagua acknowledged hearing the rumors but stated he does not take them seriously.
“I have heard the rumors of my impeachment. I am not worried, I don’t take it seriously. I heard they delayed because they didn’t have the numbers, but now Raila will give them numbers. I will wait and see,” Gachagua stated.
Government Inclusivity and Economic Responsibility
Speaking on the broad-based government formed by President William Ruto, Gachagua emphasized the inclusion of individuals who did not vote for them into the cabinet, underlining his primary responsibility to ensure that slots meant for the Mt Kenya region were retained.
“Ruto has brought people who did not vote for us into the cabinet. My main job was to ensure that slots that were meant for Mt Kenya region were retained. He is my boss,” Gachagua remarked.
He also addressed the ongoing narrative of blaming former President Uhuru Kenyatta for economic challenges, asserting that after two years in power, the current administration should offer new solutions.
“Let President Uhuru Kenyatta and his family be respected. I have decided that I will be his defender moving forward. He did a lot for this country, and even after we shamed him, he came to Kasarani and handed over power in broad daylight. We had been saying he ruined the economy, but we have been in power for two years now. Let us tell Kenyans something different: look at the mess we have in Nairobi, yet Uhuru left it in a very good state under NMS,” Gachagua stated.
Impeachment Speculations and Political Dynamics
Gachagua dismissed the impeachment claims, which he attributed to political maneuvering linked to the entry of ODM leader Raila Odinga and his allies into the Kenya Kwanza government. He clarified that President Ruto’s inclusion of Raila and his team was intended to stabilize the country, not to initiate his impeachment.
“I hear they wanted to impeach me but they did not have the numbers to do so. Now I hear that they are saying with Raila and his people in government they have the numbers to oust me if they unite,” Gachagua said.
Gachagua described the idea of his impeachment being spearheaded by MPs from the Mt Kenya region as shocking, questioning why they would target him despite his efforts to advocate for the region’s needs.
Concerns Over Security Agencies and Political Targeting
The Deputy President highlighted recent troubling developments involving his office and political style, including harassment from security agencies. He expressed disappointment over the treatment of his close allies and revealed an incident where a former senior National Intelligence Service (NIS) official was shot, an incident he claimed was not adequately addressed.
Gachagua criticized security bosses for failing to gather accurate information about recent protests and relying on dubious narratives. He recounted confronting President Ruto about the actions of security agencies, reminding him of their promise not to target and intimidate politicians.
Conclusion
Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s remarks come amid ongoing political tensions and challenges within the government. As he navigates these issues, his statements underscore his commitment to his role and his region, while also highlighting concerns about internal government dynamics and security agency actions.
About The Author
