Kenya’s Senate is deciding whether to remove Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua from office after an impeachment trial. This trial began because Gachagua has had a serious disagreement with President William Ruto just two years after they were elected together.
Gachagua is facing 11 charges, including corruption and causing ethnic divisions. He denied all the charges when they were presented to the Senate.
Last week, many members of the National Assembly voted in favor of his impeachment, which led to the current Senate trial.
The conflict between Gachagua and Ruto started after protests broke out in June over unpopular tax increases. During the trial, Mwengi Mutuse, the lawmaker who initiated the impeachment, testified against Gachagua.
He accused Gachagua of serious misconduct, like claiming that only government supporters would benefit from services and development.
Gachagua’s lawyers defended him, arguing that the accusations were either false or ridiculous. They pointed out that many of the properties he is accused of acquiring were inherited from his late brother.
The trial has gained a lot of attention in Kenya, and many believe Gachagua could be removed from office if enough senators vote against him.
The vote will take place after the trial concludes. If he is impeached, Gachagua is expected to appeal the decision.
The media has already begun speculating about potential replacements for him, with names of current governors and ministers being mentioned .
Credit : BBC
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cgk7588n1r0o