NAIROBI, Kenya — On Friday, President William Ruto appointed the current interior minister, Kithure Kindiki, as his new deputy following the dismissal of Rigathi Gachagua, who was impeached by parliament on charges of corruption and promoting ethnic divisions. This development occurred just hours after Gachagua’s removal while he was receiving medical care.
Kindiki’s nomination comes as he steps into the role once held by Gachagua. Notably, Kindiki was a leading contender for the deputy president position during the 2022 election campaign. He shares a regional background with Gachagua, both being from the influential central region known for its significant voter base.
As for Gachagua, his current hospitalization is attributed to severe chest pains reportedly linked to stress. His legal team has indicated that he plans to contest his impeachment through the courts. “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,” stated Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula. The National Assembly is anticipated to hold a vote to confirm Kindiki’s appointment soon.
Supporters of the former deputy president have criticized the impeachment proceedings as being conducted hastily. They expressed discontent when senators voted against extending the timeline to allow Gachagua the opportunity to recover and present his case before the Senate. This impeachment highlights existing rifts within the ruling party and tensions between Ruto and Gachagua regarding government policies, especially in light of Gachagua’s opposition to enforced evacuations during adverse weather conditions that led to flooding and casualties.
In his defense presented to the Assembly last week, Gachagua alleged that the impeachment motion had the president’s support and urged legislators to approach the matter free from intimidation and coercion. Meanwhile, Ruto has refrained from making any public statements regarding the unfolding impeachment situation.
Since assuming office, Ruto, who professed to represent the interests of Kenya’s lower-income population, has faced substantial backlash due to his tax increase initiatives aimed at managing the nation’s foreign debt. However, the resistance from the public has prompted him to reevaluate his cabinet positions and retreat on some controversial proposals.