Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has pleaded not guilty to eleven charges against him.
The charges include gross violation of the Constitution, abuse of office, and gross misconduct. Senate clerk Jeremiah Nyegenye read the charges aloud.
Gachagua’s plea initiates a full hearing of the case by the Senate plenary. The impeachment motion accuses him of gross violations, including promoting ethnic discrimination.
“His public statements promote division and undermine the core values of our Constitution,” stated Mwengi, who introduced the motion. “These values include unity and inclusiveness.”
The Deputy President is also accused of contradicting government policies. He allegedly failed to uphold his duties, violating the principle of collective Cabinet responsibility.
“Gachagua’s remarks contradict the policies we adopted as a government,” Mwengi explained. “This damages our credibility.”
Further allegations state that Gachagua interfered with devolved county functions. This interference is said to undermine devolution and threaten judicial independence.
“By interfering with county operations, he has undermined local leadership,” Mwengi noted. “This is a fundamental principle of devolution.”
Gachagua faces accusations of failing to respect and defend the Constitution. His inflammatory remarks allegedly violate the National Cohesion and Integration Act by promoting ethnic hatred.
“His actions display blatant disregard for the Constitution he swore to uphold,” Mwengi added. “This puts our democratic values at risk.”
The motion also claims Gachagua engaged in corruption and money laundering, violating anti-corruption laws. “Engaging in corruption while in office undermines public trust,” Mwengi asserted.
Additionally, he is accused of making false statements. These actions allegedly breach the Penal Code and Leadership and Integrity Act.
Lastly, the motion cites gross misconduct. This includes reckless attacks on the National Intelligence Service, insubordination to the President, and bullying public officers.
Mwengi concluded, “These actions influence corrupt practices and show a serious breach of public trust.” The hearing will proceed as tensions rise within the Senate.
