Senator Mungatana files censure motion against DP Gachagua
Politics
By
David Njaaga and Grace Ng'ang'a
| Sep 23, 2024
Tana River Senator Danson Mungatana has filed a censure motion against Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, set for debate in the Senate.
The motion, presented on Tuesday, September 23, raises concerns about Gachagua's statements on employment opportunities and resource allocation, as well as calls for Kenyans to disobey lawful directives from county governments.
Mungatana said Gachagua's comments have marginalised some communities and increased ethnic tensions.
He noted that the Deputy President's actions violate Article 75 of the Constitution, which outlines conduct expected of state officers.
READ MORE
Why construction sector is vibrant in semi-arid counties
Treasury CS spells out plans to lay ground for steady economic growth
How plan to free millions in container deposits will work
How CS Mbadi's proposed new tax measures will directly affect you
Global real estate investors find sweet spot in alluring Watamu
How housing initiative changes lives of widows in Rarieda
KRA surpasses monthly target as October revenue hits Sh210b
Love for fine suits turns pharmacist into fashion designer sensation
The struggles of doing business next to learning institutions
Developer defends use of Jevanjee Gardens' land as collateral for Sh1.9b loan
“The public utterances made by Rigathi Gachagua have demeaned the high office of the Deputy President,” said Mungatana.
The censure comes amid reports of internal divisions within the ruling party, with Gachagua facing criticism from allies of President William Ruto.
At a recent church service in Embakasi West, Nairobi, Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah defended Ruto, comparing his political struggles to the Biblical Apostle Paul's encounter with a viper.
“Looking at that story, I have seen how the President has gone through a lot; he found an economy in a wreck, and just when he was ready to warm up Kenyans, a viper comes and coils itself on his hand,” noted Ichung’wah.
In response, Gachagua claimed he was being attacked for his honesty and alleged that some leaders had been pressured to oppose him.
“They say that I'm high-headed, that I'm too people-centered,” he said during an interview with Citizen TV.
“I don't think it is a crime.”
Gachagua urged Ruto to address divisions within the government, noting the importance of listening to public grievances.
“Leadership is about the people; for you to be a good leader, you must listen to the people,” he said.