Narc-Kenya party leader Martha Karua has spoken out regarding the recent impeachment motion against Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, which passed in the National Assembly with a decisive vote of 281 in favor and 44 against.
Gachagua was impeached on 11 grounds, all of which he has denied, asserting his innocence and vowing to contest the outcome.
In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter) on Wednesday, Karua emphasized the importance of due process.
“Rigathi Gachagua is no angel, but like any citizen, he deserves due process, not mob lynching. We must invest in systems that work even for your worst enemy.” she said.
Karua highlighted the significance of the moment, warning that Gachagua’s situation should serve as a cautionary tale for those in positions of power.
“Gachagua’s circumstances today should be a reminder to each one of them and all people in authority that power is transient and tomorrow it will be you,” she said.
The Narc-Kenya leader expressed her concerns about recent political developments, calling for the establishment of a watchdog to oversee the executive branch.
“Those who participate in the violation of another person’s rights are laying the foundation for the violation of their rights,” she cautioned.
Karua accused the National Assembly of manipulating constitutional processes, suggesting that they sacrificed the spirit of constitutionalism for self-preservation. “However, we cannot fail to commend the few members of the National Assembly who approached the debate with sobriety,” she added.
This historic impeachment marks the first time a Deputy President has been removed from office in Kenya, signaling a significant shift in the nation’s political landscape. The outcome of the Senate proceedings will be closely watched as Gachagua seeks to overturn the National Assembly’s decision.