Makueni Senator Dan Maanzo has submitted a censure motion against President William Ruto, citing concerns over his conduct while in office. Maanzo contends that Ruto has violated the Constitution on numerous occasions, including failing to safeguard Kenyans from police brutality, as outlined in Articles 131 and 25 of the Constitution, which protect fundamental rights and freedoms. He also accused the President of failing to promote national unity.
The Senator further claimed that Ruto has marginalized a portion of the population and increased national tensions by not ensuring proper public participation in controversial policies, such as the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF), the new university funding model, the Housing Levy, and the proposed takeover of Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) by Adani Holdings.
Maanzo called on the Senate to censure the President and hold him accountable for his actions.
This move follows a similar censure motion previously filed by Tana River Senator Danson Mungatana, which focused on Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s conduct. Mungatana argued that Gachagua has violated legal provisions concerning his behavior in office, specifically accusing him of disregarding his oath of office.
“Article 260 of the Constitution categorizes the Deputy President as a state officer, whose conduct must align with Article 75 of the Constitution and the general leadership and integrity code for state officers as outlined in the Leadership Act,” Mungatana submitted.
He further noted that Gachagua’s public statements have contributed to increased tensions and divisions among Kenyans. “The remarks made by Rigathi have marginalized sections of the population and heightened tensions between ethnic communities,” he said. These remarks, according to Mungatana, involve issues such as employment opportunities in the public sector, resource allocation to devolved units, and inciting certain groups to defy lawful directives from county governments.
On Tuesday, an impeachment motion against the Deputy President was officially tabled, with 291 Members of Parliament endorsing it.
