Violent clashes broke out Friday across Kenya as supporters and opponents of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua participated in public forums to discuss an impeachment motion brought against him by the ruling alliance.
The motion, introduced in parliament Tuesday, accuses Gachagua of supporting anti-government protests in June and involvement in corruption, charges he denies.
In Nairobi, a forum at the Bomas of Kenya turned chaotic as supporters of President William Ruto clashed with Gachagua’s backers. Chairs were thrown, and activist Morara Kebaso reported injuries.
“The tension here reflects the deep political divisions in the country,” said political analyst Dr. Jane Kimuyu. “This impeachment process is more than just about Gachagua; it’s a test of Kenya’s democratic institutions.”
Police in central Kenya’s Nyeri county confronted Gachagua’s supporters, who chanted against the impeachment. In Nyandarua county, opponents of the motion were labeled traitors and ejected from a community hall.
The impeachment motion garnered 291 legislative signatures, far exceeding the constitutional requirement of 117. However, some lawmakers from Gachagua’s home region have withdrawn support after constituent consultations.
Gachagua faces impeachment on 10 grounds, including corruption and ethnic discrimination. He maintains his innocence and vows to fight the motion.
The High Court declined to halt Friday’s public participation, scheduling a hearing for next Wednesday. The Senate is expected to consider the impeachment motion on Tuesday.
President Ruto has remained silent on the impeachment, having previously stated he would not publicly humiliate his deputy, a reference to his own troubled relationship with former President Uhuru Kenyatta.
AP
