Members of the Kenyan National Assembly are set to table an impeachment motion against Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua next Tuesday.
Reports indicate that the collection of signatures was close to meeting the required threshold by Friday evening. To present the motion, 117 MPs must support it, and for it to pass, a supermajority of 233 MPs is needed before it moves to the Senate.
Leaders in the National Assembly confirmed that the signature collection drive had nearly reached 300, with Majority Whip Sylvanus Osoro and Deputy Majority Leader Owen Baya highlighting the rapid pace of the process.
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Regional caucus whips have been leading the signature collection efforts through discreet meetings. Groups from Rift Valley, Mt. Kenya, Western, and Coast have reportedly been at the forefront of this effort.
Despite the secrecy surrounding the signature collection, Majority Leader Kimani Ichungwah and Minority Leader Junet Mohammed are said to be overseeing the drive and receiving regular updates. Baya revealed that most coastal region MPs had already signed the motion, signaling strong support.
The motion must present solid legal grounds, including allegations of gross constitutional violations, criminal offenses, and misconduct.
Legislators backing the impeachment have cited various reasons, including accusations of tribalism and undermining the President. They have engaged top lawyers to strengthen the case and avoid legal challenges.
If the motion secures a two-thirds majority support in the National Assembly, it will proceed to the Senate, where 45 senators are needed to confirm the impeachment.
To avoid removal from office, Gachagua would need the backing of 23 senators. The Senate may either form a committee or decide on the motion in plenary.
