Impeached Deputy President Gachagua Claims Safety Risk After Security Withdrawal

Kenya’s impeached Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua stated on Sunday that his security team has been withdrawn and warned that President William Ruto would be responsible if anything were to happen to him.

Gachagua, who has characterized the impeachment charges against him as politically motivated, expressed concerns for his safety during a press briefing.

“It’s the most unfortunate thing that has ever happened in this country that you can be so vicious to a man who helped you to be President,” he said, referring to Ruto, whom he supported during the 2022 elections.

Police spokeswoman Resila Onyango did not immediately comment, stating she would look into Gachagua’s claims regarding his security. Ruto’s spokesperson also indicated that a statement would be forthcoming.

In Kenya, security for senior politicians is often scaled back after they leave office. However, Gachagua contends that his situation is unique since he is actively challenging his impeachment in court, and does not view his dismissal as final.

Gachagua was impeached on Thursday, facing five out of 11 charges, including gross constitutional violations and inciting ethnic hatred, with the motion supported by opposition lawmakers and some of Ruto’s allies. He has denied all allegations.

Following the impeachment, parliament approved the appointment of Interior Minister Kithure Kindiki as Gachagua’s replacement. However, a court has temporarily halted Kindiki’s swearing-in pending Gachagua’s legal challenges.

Ruto, who has had a strained relationship with Gachagua in recent months, has not publicly addressed the impeachment proceedings.

During a national holiday celebration on Sunday, he called for unity and denounced “tribalism and exclusion” in Kenya.