Kenya’s parliament was set to vote on Tuesday to impeach Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, highlighting a growing rift within the ruling party.
Lawmakers have accused the 59-year-old deputy to President William Ruto of corruption, undermining the government, and engaging in ethnically divisive politics, among other allegations.
At a press conference on Monday, Gachagua dismissed the accusations as “outrageous” and “sheer propaganda,” claiming it was part of a plot to force him out of office.
Gachagua, a businessman from Kenya’s largest tribe, the Kikuyu, has survived previous corruption scandals to become Ruto’s deputy following a closely contested election in August 2022.
But in recent weeks, he has complained of being sidelined by his boss and been accused of supporting youth-led anti-government protests that broke out in June.
Political tensions have been running high since the sometimes deadly demonstrations erupted over unpopular tax hikes, exposing divisions between Gachagua and Ruto.
Several MPs allied with Gachagua were summoned by police last month, accused of funding the protests.
No formal charges have been lodged by prosecutors and no judicial inquiry has been opened against Gachagua.
But lawmakers have listed 11 grounds for impeachment, including accusations that he amassed assets worth 5.2 billion shillings ($40 million) since the last election, despite an annual salary of just $93,000.
Among the listed assets was Kenya’s renowned Treetops Hotel, where Britain’s then-Princess Elizabeth was staying when she became queen.
Gachagua says his wealth has come entirely through legitimate business deals and an inheritance from his late brother.
He has warned his removal would stir discontent among his supporters.
Kenyan lawmakers initiated the impeachment process on October 1, with 291 members of parliament backing the motion, well beyond the 117 minimum required.
Two-thirds of the lower house, the National Assembly, must back the motion for it to pass on Tuesday. It would then move to the upper house, the Senate.
