Ruto Names Kindiki as New Deputy President After Gachagua's Impeachment

Kenya's President Ruto Replaces Impeached Deputy with Close Ally

Kindiki's appointment is strategic, given his strong ties to the central region...

Kenyan Politics: President Ruto replaces impeached deputy Rigathi Gachagua with ally Kithure Kindiki, citing corruption and insubordination.

Kenyan President William Ruto has appointed Kithure Kindiki, a close ally and former Interior Minister, as his new deputy. This move comes after Rigathi Gachagua, the former deputy president, was impeached by parliament on allegations of corruption and fostering ethnic divisions.

Gachagua's impeachment was swift, and his hospitalization hasn't halted plans to contest the decision. His lawyer reports he's suffering from severe chest pains due to stress, but he's determined to challenge the impeachment in court.

Kindiki's appointment is strategic, given his strong ties to the central region, a crucial voting block. He was also a leading contender for the deputy president position during the 2022 election campaign. President Ruto presented Kindiki to the National Assembly, solidifying his new role.

This development underscores the complex dynamics within Kenya's government. President Ruto's leadership has been marked by significant events, including his inauguration last year and proposals for large-scale privatization of public enterprises. The country continues to navigate economic challenges, including a significant debt burden and tax protests.

Pointers

Impeachment: Rigathi Gachagua removed as deputy president due to corruption and ethnic division allegations.

New Appointment: Kithure Kindiki, former Interior Minister, appointed as new deputy president.

Challenge Ahead: Gachagua plans to contest impeachment in court despite health issues.

Regional Significance: Kindiki's central region ties crucial for voting block support.

 “I have received a message from his excellency the president, regarding the nomination of Professor Kithure Kindiki to fill the vacancy which has occurred in the office of the deputy president,” Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang'ula said.

The Kenyan National Assembly is expected to confirm Kithure Kindiki's nomination as deputy president, following Rigathi Gachagua's impeachment. Gachagua's supporters have strongly criticized the impeachment process, labeling it hasty and unfair, after senators denied an extension that would have allowed him more time to recover and attend the Senate.

Gachagua's impeachment has highlighted deep-seated divisions within the ruling party, particularly between President William Ruto and Gachagua. The former deputy president faced accusations of insubordination for opposing the government's policy on forced evictions during heavy rains that led to devastating flooding and loss of life.

Factors Leading to Impeachment:

Opposition to Government Policy: Gachagua's stance against forced evictions during heavy rains sparked tensions with President Ruto.

Allegations of Corruption: Gachagua faced accusations of corruption, contributing to his impeachment.

Rifts within the Ruling Party: The impeachment process exposed underlying divisions within the party.

The National Assembly has already approved Kindiki's nomination, with 241 MPs backing Gachagua's impeachment motion, exceeding the required threshold. As the situation unfolds, Kenyans will be watching closely to see how this leadership change impacts the country's governance and policy decisions.