Kenya's Deputy President Faces Impeachment Motion

Kenya's parliament has tabled a motion to impeach Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua for gross violation of the constitution. The motion, signed by over one-third of lawmakers and presented by MP Mwengi Mutuse, accuses Gachagua of unfair public service appointments and resource allocation. Tensions between Gachagua and President William Ruto have come to light recently.

Kenya's parliament on Tuesday tabled a motion to impeach Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua for gross violation of the constitution, according to the parliamentary speaker. Local media reports indicate a fallout between Gachagua and President William Ruto.

The motion, signed by more than one-third of lawmakers and presented by MP Mwengi Mutuse, an ally of Ruto's coalition, accuses Gachagua of denying equal opportunities for public service appointments and resource allocation. The rift between Ruto and Gachagua has been evident recently, with Gachagua alleging he has been sidelined while denying involvement in violent protests earlier this year.

The director of communications at Gachagua's office did not immediately respond to Reuters' request for comment. Parliamentary speaker Moses Wetang'ula highlighted the significance of the motion, saying, "A special motion before the House presents an unprecedented constitutional moment in our democracy." He noted this is the first test under the 2010 constitution of provisions for impeaching a deputy president.

(With inputs from agencies.)