Kenya's impeached Deputy President, Rigathi Gachagua, has spoken out after being hospitalized for more than 60 hours at Karen Hospital due to severe chest pains.
Upon his discharge, Gachagua criticized President William Ruto, accusing him of orchestrating the political turmoil that led to his impeachment by the Senate.
Expressing deep regret, Gachagua said he was shocked by Ruto's "viciousness," claiming betrayal after supporting him throughout his political journey. "I didn’t expect this from a man I helped to become president. I believed in him and even faced persecution for supporting him," Gachagua lamented.
He revealed that attempts had been made to prevent him from attending the Mashujaa Day celebrations in Kwale, citing directives that banned him from using helicopters. He also accused authorities of restricting his access to Wilson Airport during this time.
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Gachagua further stated that his security had been completely withdrawn, leaving him vulnerable at his Karen and Nyeri residences. His office staff were similarly targeted, with their vehicles impounded to "cripple" his role as Deputy President.
First of all I’m happy that Gachagua has started exposing them. Secondly, We were right all along Gachagua has just said that Ruto wanted a puppet for a DP. pic.twitter.com/5wAjuSCIE2
— Eve Maina (@evenmaina) October 20, 2024
"If anything happens to me or my family, President Ruto must be held accountable," he warned.
Gachagua believes his removal stems from being the only Cabinet member willing to speak truthfully to President Ruto, particularly about corruption concerns, including the controversial Adani deal.
Despite his impeachment on October 17, 2024, where the Senate upheld five out of 11 charges against him, Gachagua maintains he is still the Deputy President due to a court stay order.
He plans to challenge his removal in court and is determined to secure a second Senate hearing to defend himself. Meanwhile, President Ruto has nominated Interior CS Kithure Kindiki to replace him.
