Kalonzo, Kioni Vow to Defend Gachagua Against Impeachment

Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has received unexpected support from opposition figures in the face of potential impeachment threats.

Azimio co-principal Kalonzo Musyoka and Jubilee Secretary General Jeremiah Kioni have pledged to back Gachagua should an impeachment motion be tabled in the National Assembly. During a requiem mass at the African Inland Church Milimani, Musyoka articulated the Azimio coalition's stance, stating they would oppose any impeachment motion against Gachagua. He emphasized the coalition's reluctance to engage in what he termed "unnecessary fights" within a struggling administration.

“As a summit of Azimio, we have taken the position, if they bring an impeachment motion against Gachagua we will oppose it, we don't want to be drawn into those unnecessary fights between a sinking administration. We are not interested,” he said.

This support from Azimio, which commands a significant number of MPs in parliament, could prove crucial in thwarting any impeachment attempts. However, the political landscape remains complex, with some ODM MPs, including former Minority Leader Opiyo Wandayi, expressing willingness to support an impeachment motion if introduced by Kenya Kwanza counterparts. The impeachment rumours have been further fueled by social media activity with Homabay MP Peter Kaluma suggesting that the younger generation has liberated President Ruto from Gachagua's influence.

Kaluma calls for a merit-based approach to governance, rejecting what he terms "sharestribalism." Jeremiah Kioni has dismissed the impeachment talks as a diversionary tactic by the Ruto administration aimed at deflecting attention from demands made by the younger generation. He provocatively suggests that if impeachment were to be considered, it should target both President Ruto and Deputy President Gachagua. The political drama has been intensified by allegations against Gachagua, including claims of insubordination and undermining the presidency.

These accusations have led to increased scrutiny within the ruling Kenya Kwanza Coalition. However, some MPs, including Gatanga's Edward Muriu, have dismissed the impeachment claims as rumours propagated by Gachagua's own supporters.