Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has placed his trust in Members of Parliament ahead of their vote on his impeachment motion. Expressing confidence in the legislative body, Gachagua stated that he believes MPs will make the right decision.
Addressing Parliament in response to the accusations against him, he urged lawmakers to reflect deeply and act with integrity: “Look, reflect, and apply your conscience to make the right decision,” he said. “I have tremendous respect for the National Assembly and trust in your ability to make the right decision.”
Gachagua defended his decision to speak publicly on the matter the day before his parliamentary appearance. He addressed the nation during a televised interview from his official residence in Karen, despite a prior warning from National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang'ula. The Speaker had cautioned him against discussing matters currently before Parliament, stating that as a former MP, Gachagua should know better. Wetang’ula remarked, “It is spilt milk, water under the bridge. But as a former member of this House, you should reflect on whether this is a theatre of the absurd or the Honourable National Assembly.”
Did you read this?
In response, Gachagua explained that Kenyans deserved to hear his side of the story, noting that the allegations were already a topic of widespread public debate. “My address was not intended to disrespect the House,” he clarified, adding that since the accusations were widely discussed, it was only fair to let Kenyans hear from him directly.
The Deputy President faces 11 charges brought by Kibwezi West MP, Mwengi Mutuse. These include inciting ethnic tensions, economic crimes, undermining the President, publicly criticizing a judge, threatening the acting CEO of Kemsa, and amassing wealth valued at Sh5.2 billion. Gachagua has denied all the allegations and vowed to fight the impeachment process, stating he is prepared to take the matter to court if necessary.
