Looking back at the events that led to former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s impeachment, it is clear Parliament acted in the best interest of the country. His removal was not a political witch-hunt but a necessary response to a pattern of conduct that undermined national unity, governance, and the integrity of public office.
First, Gachagua’s divisive tribal rhetoric was damaging. While claiming to fight for Mt. Kenya’s interests, he consistently alienated other communities, framing politics as a regional zero-sum game. This eroded the national cohesion that leaders are expected to protect.
Second, credible allegations of corruption and personal enrichment weighed heavily against him. Evidence suggested that he used his position to amass vast wealth—buying huge tracts of land, acquiring luxury hotels, and expanding his business empire—all financed through public coffers. Such actions are a betrayal of taxpayers and a blatant abuse of power.
Third, his confrontational style toward the presidency and fellow leaders made governance chaotic. Public disagreements over policy direction, aired in rallies and press conferences, painted a picture of a government at war with itself—hurting investor confidence and public morale.
Fourth, Gachagua’s reputation for transactional politics—demanding loyalty in exchange for development—was unacceptable for a national leader. This approach reduced governance to patronage, punishing regions or leaders who disagreed with him.
Finally, his inability to separate personal political ambitions from his constitutional role compromised the dignity of the office. Instead of working as a unifying deputy to the president, he often acted as though he was running his own parallel government.
In retrospect, Parliament’s decision to impeach Gachagua was justified. A leader who thrives on division, uses public resources for personal gain, and prioritizes personal battles over national progress cannot be trusted to hold high office. His removal was not just political—it was a constitutional safeguard for Kenya’s stability.
