Orengo to Gachagua: You Siphoned Your Late Brother's Finances

Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua is currently embroiled in a high-stakes impeachment proceeding in the Kenyan Senate, facing serious allegations of misconduct brought forth by Senior Counsel James Orengo.

At the heart of the controversy are allegations presented by Orengo during the Senate hearing. He contends that Gachagua visited his ailing brother, former Nyeri Governor Nderitu Gachagua, at a London hospital in February 2017. According to Orengo, Gachagua allegedly coerced his brother into signing a will mere days before his passing and began withdrawing money from the accounts even before the former governor's death. This claim is bolstered by objections raised by fellow executors of the deceased's will, Njoroge Regeru and Mwai Mathenge, who have expressed concerns about Gachagua's management of his late brother's assets.

In response to these allegations, Gachagua's legal representative Elisha Ongoya has mounted a robust defense. Ongoya argues that the accusations are designed to elicit an emotional response from the Senators, potentially compromising their ability to carry out their constitutional duties impartially. He has questioned the sufficiency of evidence presented to substantiate claims of gross misconduct and constitutional violations, asserting that the motion's proponents have failed to provide concrete proof of insubordination. The impeachment proceedings have broader constitutional and legal implications.

Orengo has emphasized that the Senate holds exclusive jurisdiction in cases involving the impeachment of high-ranking officials such as the president, deputy president, and governors. He argues that Gachagua's actions contravene the constitution, as the Deputy President is expected to serve the entire nation rather than represent specific interests. Furthermore, Orengo has raised concerns about Gachagua's public discussions regarding the conduct of the National Intelligence Service director general, questioning whether such actions violate the oath of office and compromise national security.

Gachagua has suggested that the impeachment process has Ruto's tacit approval. The Deputy President has pleaded not guilty to all charges, which include corruption, inciting ethnic divisions, and undermining the government. As the proceedings unfold, the Senate is poised to vote on Gachagua's impeachment on Thursday, October 17. Before the final decision, the Deputy President is scheduled to present evidence and undergo a three-hour cross-examination process before the Senate.