Ruto's silence on Gachagua's impeachment raises questions

President William Ruto, with his deputy Rigathi Gachagua on June 1, 2024. [Benjamin Sakwa, Standard]

President William Ruto has remained silent regarding the impeachment motion against his deputy Rigathi Gachagua, which has garnered unprecedented support from 291 MPs.

This silence has sparked speculation about Ruto's stance on the motion, especially given that he and Gachagua were elected on a joint ticket.

Observers are divided on whether the President supports the impeachment or is merely withholding comment.

Ruto returned quietly to the country on Sunday, September 29 after a ten-day tour of the United States, where he addressed the United Nations General Assembly, met with a Kenyan peace mission in Haiti, and was interviewed on CNN.

Unlike previous engagements, Ruto's social media accounts have been noticeably inactive, with the last post concerning the ongoing Magical Kenya Travel Expo 2024 at Uhuru Gardens in Nairobi.

It remains unclear whether Ruto is involved in the impeachment process, especially given the significant cross-party support for Gachagua's ouster.

Notably, National Assembly Leader of Majority Kimani Ichungwa referred to Gachagua as "a man with a black heart."

The impeachment motion, introduced by Kibwezi West MP Mwengi Mutuse, outlines 11 charges against Gachagua, including gross violation of the Constitution, misconduct, bullying, corruption, and undermining the presidency.

The support of 291 MPs surpasses the 117 votes required for the motion, underscoring Gachagua's precarious political future.

'Bromance'

Tensions between Ruto and Gachagua have been evident, particularly during the June anti-government protests.

The DP distanced himself from the protests in a press conference in Mombasa, blaming National Intelligence Service (NIS) head Noordin Haji for failing to provide adequate intelligence on the situation, shortly after Ruto condemned the protests in a national address.

In a recent TV interview, Gachagua acknowledged a strained relationship with the President, indicating he had been excluded from key decisions, a WhatsApp group and forced to "play catch-up."

Should Gachagua survive the impeachment, questions arise about his future relationship with MPs aligned with the ruling party, UDA.

Some 54 MPs opposed the motion, suggesting fractures within the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party.

Pundits also question Ruto's ability to mend these divisions, seeing as Gachagua emphasises his role in securing votes in the Mt. Kenya region during the last General Election.

Further complicating the political landscape, Makueni Senator Dan Maanzo yesterday filed a censure motion against Ruto, alleging that he has failed to protect Kenyans and address pressing national issues.