Kenya’s Deputy President, Rigathi Gachagua, has been removed from office following a Senate vote, despite being hospitalized and unable to attend his impeachment trial.
Gachagua, also known by his nickname “Riggy G,” had been scheduled to appear before the Senate to defend himself against multiple charges, including corruption, inciting ethnic divisions, and undermining the government.
However, his legal team requested a postponement, citing his hospitalization due to chest pains at The Karen Hospital.
Despite the request, Kenyan senators proceeded with the trial in Gachagua’s absence, leading his defense team to walk out of the session.
By Thursday evening, the Senate reached the required two-thirds majority vote, with 67 senators overwhelmingly supporting his removal from office after convicting him on the first count.
The political drama marks one of Kenya’s most intense moments in recent years, as Gachagua had pleaded not guilty to 11 charges just a day prior. His ousting now sets the stage for speculation regarding his successor.
Potential candidates include Murang’a County Governor Irungu Kang’ata, Kirinyaga County Governor Anne Waiguru, Interior Minister Kithure Kindiki, and Foreign Affairs Minister Musalia Mudavadi.
Gachagua’s impeachment adds another layer of tension to Kenya’s political landscape, as the country watches closely to see who will fill the Deputy President’s office.