Kisii County Senator Richard Onyonka has assured Kenyans that the Senate will conduct a fair trial of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s impeachment case. On Wednesday, October 9, 2024, Onyonka took to his official X account, stating that the Senate, led by Speaker Amason Kingi, will carefully listen to, study, and examine all the charges brought against DP Gachagua.
“I hear you. We will listen, study, and scrutinize all the charges laid. I promise to be IMPARTIAL and FAIR. I understand the gravity of this issue,” Onyonka wrote on X.
However, the outspoken lawmaker emphasized that the impeachment case would not distract him from addressing the critical issues affecting Kenyans. He called for answers regarding the collapse of the Social Health Authority (SHA) and Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF) management system, which failed shortly after its official rollout.
“Our focus remains on the most pertinent issues affecting Kenyans. We must seek answers as to why the SHA/SHIF management system has collapsed!” Onyonka stated.
His comments came a day after the National Assembly voted in favor of impeaching DP Gachagua in a historic move.
Gachagua Impeached
A total of 281 Members of Parliament (MPs) voted in favor of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s removal, while 44 MPs supported him, and one abstained. The announcement was made by National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula at 9:20 p.m., sparking celebration among the MPs, who broke into song and dance.
The 59-year-old Gachagua, who rose to the position of Deputy President after serving one term as an MP, had dramatically fallen out with President William Ruto. Gachagua faced 11 impeachment charges, including gross violation of the Constitution, abuse of office, and corruption.
Before the vote, the National Assembly had given Gachagua an opportunity to defend himself against the accusations. The vote resulted in his ouster as Deputy President.
The matter now moves to the Senate, which will hear the impeachment case. Should the Senate uphold the National Assembly’s decision, Gachagua will be required to step down from his position.
Senate Speaker Amason Kingi, in a gazette notice dated Wednesday, October 9, 2024, confirmed that a Senate sitting had been scheduled for the same day to hear the charges regarding Gachagua’s proposed removal from office. The sitting commenced at 9:30 a.m.
