The embattled Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has pleaded not guilty to all the eleven charges against him, setting the stage for the Senate plenary's full hearing of the case.
Senate clerk Jeremiah Nyegenye read out the charges, which include gross violation of the constitution and other laws, abuse of office,, and gross misconduct.
The impeachment motion accuses Gachagua of gross violations of the Constitution, including promoting ethnic discrimination and undermining national unity through divisive public statements.
“His public statements promote division and undermine the core values of our Constitution, including unity and inclusiveness,” Mwengi notes in the motion.
Gachagua is accused of contradicting government policies and failing to uphold his duties as Deputy President, thus violating the principle of collective Cabinet responsibility.
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“Gachagua’s unilateral remarks contradict the policies we have collectively adopted as a government, damaging our credibility,” said Mwengi.
Further, the motion alleges that Gachagua interfered with devolved county functions, undermining devolution and threatening the judiciary, violating the principle of judicial independence.
“By interfering with the operations of county governments, he has undermined the fundamental principles of devolution that empower local leadership,” Mwengi notes.
He is accused of failing to respect and defend the Constitution, while his inflammatory remarks allegedly violated the National Cohesion and Integration Act by promoting ethnic hatred.
“His actions show a blatant disregard for the Constitution that he is sworn to uphold, putting our democratic values at risk,” Mwengi said.
The motion also claims Gachagua engaged in corruption, money laundering, and abuse of office, violating anti-corruption laws.
Additionally, he is accused of allegedly making false and malicious statements, breaching the Penal Code and Leadership and Integrity Act.
Additionally, he is accused of gross misconduct, including reckless attacks on the National Intelligence Service, insubordination to the President, bullying public officers, and influencing corrupt practices.
