The escalating political showdown between Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and President William Ruto has unveiled deep cracks within the ruling Kenya Kwanza coalition, potentially signaling a bitter political contest.
Gachagua’s impeachment trial, initiated by Kibwezi West MP Mwengi Mutuse on charges stemming from alleged misconduct during President Uhuru Kenyatta’s administration, has morphed into a broader narrative of betrayal and backroom deals, intensifying tensions between the two leaders.
Gachagua, in his defense, framed his impeachment as politically motivated, implicating Ruto in the very actions for which he is being prosecuted.
He accused the President of masterminding his downfall, citing their deteriorated relationship.
The DP alleged that Ruto had sanctioned illegal evictions and denied the reality of extrajudicial killings, forcing Gachagua into a corner where compliance meant violating his moral and legal principles.
This open defiance is an extraordinary display of internal dissent within a government that once stood united.
The DP’s political gambit extends to airing grievances about how the government operates. Gachagua’s revelations about secret coalitions, the favoritism toward leaders like National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula and Senate Speaker Amason Kingi, and his refusal to retract criticisms against the National Intelligence Service (NIS) highlight fractures in the administration’s leadership.
Analysts argue that Gachagua’s removal may signal a final rupture with Ruto, with slim chances for reconciliation.
The relationship has seemingly reached an irreparable state, exacerbated by the growing influence of Interior CS Kithure Kindiki, endorsed by over 60 Mount Kenya MPs as their leader. This endorsement could represent a decisive shift in Mount Kenya’s political allegiance, leaving Gachagua increasingly isolated in the corridors of power.
The fallout has implications for Gachagua’s political future. Some, like EALA MP David Sankok, suggest that even if the Senate saves him from impeachment, working alongside Ruto would be untenable.
Without the support of a majority of MPs, Gachagua’s ability to supervise government projects or influence policy would be severely diminished, suggesting that resignation might be his only dignified option.
His political position is contrasted sharply with Ruto’s own time as Deputy President, during which he maintained considerable backing from MPs, a luxury Gachagua lacks.
Political commentator Charles Nyambuga of Maseno University observes that this power struggle may be irreversibly damaging to the duo’s partnership.
The failure of attempts at mediation by the clergy and elders reflects the severity of the schism. Nyambuga notes that Gachagua is likely underestimating the gravity of the situation, as Ruto’s political maneuvering has weakened his position.
As the impeachment battle intensifies, Gachagua’s team is exploring legal avenues to challenge the validity of the charges, focusing on procedural flaws like insufficient public participation.
However, even with a strong defense, the underlying political dynamics appear to be shifting against him. Embakasi Central MP Benjamin Gathiru’s remarks suggest a protracted political battle that could extend to the courts, dragging on for months.
With the lines firmly drawn, the impending outcome could signal the beginning of the end for Gachagua’s political career or mark a dramatic turning point in Kenya’s political landscape.
