KENYA: Ruto Claims To Rescue Gachagua From Impeachment Twice

By Lisbeth Micheni, Kenya

Kenyan President, William Ruto, has revealed that he stepped in twice to prevent the impeachment of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua by Members of Parliament (MPs).

Speaking during a media session at Nyeri State Lodge on Monday, Ruto stated that he had given Gachagua several chances to resolve conflicts, which he described as unnecessary disputes.

He noted that the former deputy president was frequently involved in confrontations with MPs and senior State House officials.

“I did my best to save him. The first time he faced rejection, I defended him. When another impeachment attempt was made, I stepped in again. But was I elected to serve one individual or the people of Kenya?” Ruto questioned.

The President stressed that Kenyans hold the ultimate authority in judging their leaders’ performance. He urged politicians to prioritize national development instead of engaging in personal battles.

Gachagua was eventually impeached in October 2024, becoming the first deputy president in Kenya’s history to be removed from office.

The Senate upheld at least five charges against him, including allegations of violating laws on national cohesion, undermining judicial independence, and misconduct involving public attacks on the National Intelligence Service.

The impeachment motion, introduced by Kibwezi West MP Mwengi Mutuse, was supported by 281 MPs, while only 44 voted against it. Mutuse had presented 11 charges in total, leading to Gachagua’s removal.

Ruto clarified that the decision to impeach Gachagua was made by leaders from the Mt Kenya region, and he played no role in endorsing it.

“Those who removed him followed the law. I never signed anything approving his removal,” he said.

The President also reiterated that his choice of Gachagua as running mate was based on consultations with Mt Kenya leaders, who had recommended a candidate from the region.