Kenya’s Controversial Deputy President Faces Impeachment

Kenya’s Deputy President, Rigathi Gachagua, known for his outspoken style and self-proclaimed title of “truthful man,” is now grappling with impeachment proceedings. He attributes his current troubles to his unfiltered approach to politics, which has made him both a polarizing figure and a formidable opponent in the political arena.

Before entering the political spotlight in 2017 as a Member of Parliament, Gachagua was relatively unknown outside his central Kenya constituency. His rise to prominence came during the lead-up to the 2022 elections, when he vehemently opposed then-President Uhuru Kenyatta’s preferred successor, former Prime Minister Raila Odinga. While Kenyatta rallied support for Odinga, Gachagua aligned himself with William Ruto, Kenyatta’s deputy at the time, who was determined to secure the presidency.

Gachagua’s bold rhetoric often landed him in hot water. At one rally, he provocatively remarked, “Don’t kill me the way your father killed JM Kariuki,” referring to the mysterious assassination of a prominent MP during Jomo Kenyatta’s presidency—a statement that shocked many and highlighted Gachagua’s fearless, sometimes reckless, style.

Before becoming deputy president, Gachagua faced legal troubles when police raided his home as part of a corruption investigation. However, the charges were dropped after he and Ruto assumed power in 2022. Gachagua played a crucial role in Ruto’s election campaign, galvanizing support from the Mount Kenya region, which is considered Kenya’s most significant voting bloc. Kenyatta’s attempts to sway this constituency toward Odinga were unsuccessful, largely due to Gachagua’s mobilization efforts.

Although he previously served as Kenyatta’s trusted aide, Gachagua’s relationship with the former president soured after he aligned with Ruto. In a surprising turn, he later expressed regret for opposing Kenyatta, describing it as “foolish.” This admission starkly contrasts with his earlier aggressive political persona, which analysts characterized as a “feared political bulldog.”

Despite Gachagua’s earlier success in mobilizing support, his ability to navigate the political landscape has faltered in the past two years. He now faces accusations ranging from corruption and money laundering to gross misconduct and bullying of public officials. As calls for his impeachment grow louder, it was revealed that 291 out of 349 MPs have signed a motion for his removal, surpassing the two-thirds majority needed for impeachment.

Political analyst Bobby Mkangi has pointed out that Gachagua’s failure to consolidate support among fellow politicians has significantly contributed to his current predicament. While some have criticized his brashness, Gachagua maintains that he is merely speaking the truth, which he believes has made him unpopular among certain factions. “I will not compromise my principles,” he stated defiantly as impeachment discussions intensified.

Gachagua’s identity is deeply tied to his lineage as a descendant of Mau Mau freedom fighters, which he often invokes to resonate with the people of central Kenya. Born in 1965 to parents involved in the independence struggle, he sees himself as a champion for those who continue to seek economic freedom. His slogan, “don’t touch the mountain,” reflects his staunch advocacy for the interests of the Mount Kenya region, although he has faced criticism for fostering tribalism.

Before entering politics, Gachagua served in various administrative roles within the government, gaining a reputation for high-handedness during Daniel arap Moi’s presidency. His earlier experience as Kenyatta’s personal assistant equipped him with valuable political insight, but it also casts a shadow over his leadership style, which some describe as aggressive.

Having built considerable wealth through business ventures, Gachagua is married to a pastor, Dorcas, and they have two adult sons. His political career began in earnest when he won the Mathira constituency seat in 2017, a position once held by his late brother.

Despite his political acumen, Gachagua’s public statements have sometimes backfired. He once likened government to a shareholding company, suggesting that supporters of the current administration deserved preferential treatment in government contracts. This comment was criticized for marginalizing certain groups and heightening ethnic tensions.

As Gachagua faces impeachment, he recognizes that his forthright nature, once his greatest asset, may ultimately lead to his political demise. The path ahead remains uncertain, as the political landscape in Kenya continues to shift, and Gachagua must navigate the consequences of his unyielding candor.