Kitui Senator Dan Maanzo, a close ally of Wiper party leader Kalonzo Musyoka, has stated on a live TV show that if President William Ruto supports the impeachment of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, he will introduce an impeachment motion against the president in the Senate.
In a new political development, Tana River Senator Danson Mungatana has launched a censure motion against Gachagua, accusing him of divisive politics and violating his oath of office, among other allegations. Maanzo, who is a lawyer, argues that President Ruto should also be prepared for impeachment since both he and his deputy were elected as a team; if one is removed, both should go.
Constitutionally, the National Assembly handles the impeachment of the Deputy President, while the Senate is responsible for the President’s impeachment. Following Maanzo’s comments, President Ruto’s supporters reportedly expressed significant concern, recognizing the potential for senators to unite in favour of impeaching the president.
It is widely known that Kalonzo Musyoka has approached Gachagua with plans to ally for the 2027 elections. Maanzo’s threats against Ruto suggest that Musyoka is working to protect Gachagua from impeachment. Analysts note that Kalonzo’s strategy heavily relies on ODM leader Raila Odinga, who could play a key role in either supporting Ruto in the Senate or allowing the impeachment process to proceed, potentially leading to new presidential elections.
According to constitutional provisions, if Gachagua is impeached and Maanzo’s motion against Ruto is approved, National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula would assume the role of acting president for 90 days while fresh presidential elections are organized.
This scenario puts pressure on Raila Odinga, who may either make another run for the presidency or back one of the Azimio leaders with presidential aspirations. The current situation creates an uneasy environment for President Ruto; if he faces betrayal from Odinga, coupled with support from Mount Kenya and Kalonzo Musyoka, it could spell political trouble for him.
Analysts suggest that political tensions are unlikely to ease soon following the filing of the censure motion against Gachagua. A censure motion represents a formal expression of disapproval of a state officer’s actions, distinct from impeachment.
It’s become clear that Gachagua is facing growing isolation amid impeachment allegations, further straining his relationship with Ruto. In his petition, Senator Mungatana claimed that since taking office, Gachagua has made comments about public service job opportunities and resource allocation that have incited segments of the population to disregard lawful directives from county governments. Consequently, Mungatana seeks to censure Gachagua, arguing that his remarks have heightened ethnic tensions in Kenya.
