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NEWS & CURRENT AFFAIRS

The Nairobian

Why Gachagua's goose is cooked

Politics

By Esther Nyambura | Oct 15, 2024

**Political analyst Peter Kagwanja speaking on Spice FM.** [Screen Grab]

As the Senate prepares to hear Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua's impeachment case on Wednesday and Thursday, political analyst Peter Kagwanja believes the outcome is inevitable.

Speaking on Spice FM on Tuesday, October 15, Kagwanja argued that the recent alliance between the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) and the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has significantly weakened Gachagua’s position, casting doubt on his chances of surviving the political turmoil.

The political analyst noted that before the broad-based government was formed in July, discussions about Gachagua's impeachment were nonexistent.

However, the political landscape has since shifted dramatically, with the UDA-ODM alliance now forming a powerful force in Parliament.

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Kagwanja averred that this alliance could easily overpower any defense Gachagua might present.

"This is a joint effort between UDA and ODM. With their numbers, Gachagua's goose is cooked," he said.

His remarks come amid growing discontent in some political circles, especially in DP Gachagua's stronghold of Central Kenya.

Some view the impeachment as a direct attack on their government representative, while others take a more radical stance, insisting that if Gachagua is removed, the entire presidency should also face scrutiny.

Last week, 281 members of the National Assembly voted to impeach Gachagua, with only 44 opposing the motion. Supporters of the impeachment cited his alleged disrespect toward President William Ruto and other grievances, arguing he was unfit for office.

Despite the mounting pressure, Gachagua has maintained his innocence, calling the impeachment a political witch hunt.

Ruto has remained silent on the matter, while allies like Kikuyu MP Kimani Ichung’wah have suggested that the President deserves a “more suitable” deputy.

As the Senate hearing approaches, these differing perspectives highlight the complex dynamics within Kenya's political scene.

Experts now say the outcome could have far-reaching implications, not only for Gachagua but also for the stability of the Ruto administration and its future alliances.