As Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua faced the Senate over his impeachment trial yesterday, former Prime Minister Raila Odinga held a notable meeting with Murang’a Governor Irungu Kang’ata, fueling speculation about Gachagua’s potential successor if the Senate upholds his removal.
Kang’ata confirmed the meeting on X, stating: “The Right Honourable former Prime Minister Raila Odinga invited me this morning for consultations. We had a fruitful discussion on national cohesion and the progress we have made as a country under devolution.”
This meeting followed Kang’ata’s earlier gathering with several MPs at a Nairobi hotel, which occurred on the same day that Gachagua was in court attempting to stop his impeachment. Kang’ata, a seasoned politician who has served as a councillor, Kiharu MP, Murang’a Senator, and now Murang’a Governor, avoided questions on Gachagua’s succession.
National Assembly Majority Whip Sylvanus Osoro, who attended the meeting, downplayed the rumours, saying: “Governor Kang’ata is an experienced leader, and we often have such meetings to learn from his journey.” He further praised Kang’ata’s leadership, noting his rise through various ranks of government.
Despite the speculation, both Osoro and Kang’ata steered clear of discussing the Deputy President’s future in their media interview, with Kang’ata attributing the meeting to his long-standing friendships with MPs from different political affiliations.
Gachagua’s impeachment, which passed in the National Assembly on October 8, 2024, stems from 11 charges, including gross violations of the Constitution, corruption, and ethnic divisiveness. He has strongly denied the accusations, calling them “outrageous and politically motivated,” and remains determined to fight his removal through the courts.
During the impeachment trial session, chaired by Senate Speaker Amason Kingi, Gachagua refuted all charges. However, speculation is mounting regarding potential successors, with names such as Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki, Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru, Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro, and Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga floated.
Political analysts predict that the Senate may uphold Gachagua’s impeachment, with support expected from both ruling and opposition party senators, following the pattern seen in the National Assembly.
