Gachagua Employees Face Mass Dismissal In State Purge

The aftermath of the impeachment of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua continues to unfold, with around 300 employees losing their jobs as the purge escalates.

These employees, hired during Gachagua's tenure, received termination notifications via text message over the weekend directing them to collect formal dismissal letters from their workplaces. The reorganization extends beyond administrative staff to affect Gachagua's political allies in Parliament and state corporations. A notable case is that of Laikipia Senator John Kinyua, who was removed from his position on the Parliamentary Service Commission (PSC) and replaced by Nyeri Senator Wahome Wamatinga.

While Senate Majority Leader Aaron Cheruiyot attributed the change to Kinyua's resignation, the senator himself suggested his removal was connected to his association with Gachagua, offering only cryptic responses when questioned about the circumstances. Several committee chairs in Parliament face similar uncertainties. Other prominent allies of Gachagua reportedly at risk include Budget and Appropriations Committee Chair Ndindi Nyoro, Agriculture Committee Chair James Murango, Transport Committee Chair Karungoi Thangwa, and Trade Committee Chair James Gakuya. The restructuring has been particularly dramatic in Gachagua's former office.

Staff member John Mbuthia revealed that Professor Kindiki's administration had initiated mass terminations, though some uncertainty remained as termination letters were not immediately available when affected employees arrived to collect them. This followed an October 19 circular from Principal Administrative Secretary Patrick Mwangi that placed 108 senior staff members on compulsory leave, including high-ranking officials like Deputy Presidential Communication Service strategist Njeri Rugene and advisor Ngunjiri Wambugu.

The changes have reached state corporations as well, exemplified by the revocation of Wanjira Mabati's appointment as director of Tana Water Works and her replacement by Njoki Maina, as documented in a gazette notice signed by Water CS Eric Muuga. Meanwhile, parliamentary leaders like Kikuyu MP Kimani Ichung'wah have issued warnings to committee chairs about potential removal for inadequate performance. Political observers have expressed concern about the long-term implications of these changes.

Nyandarua Senator John Methu characterizes Gachagua's impeachment as politically motivated, warning of severe consequences for national unity. The political reorganization occurs against a backdrop of public discontent, evidenced by recent demonstrations of disapproval toward the President in Embu regarding healthcare and housing policies.