Gachagua Changes Tact to Save Self Ahead of Defining UDA PG
Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua finds himself at the heart of a political tempest that threatens not only his career but also the stability of the United Democratic Alliance (UDA). With nearly 300 Members of Parliament rallying behind a motion to impeach him, Gachagua faces a defining moment that could determine his future in Kenyan politics.
The political undercurrents behind the impeachment have raised tensions across the country, as President William Ruto, initially supportive of the move, has since softened his stance following interventions from key business and religious figures.
President Ruto, who reportedly approved the impeachment motion last Wednesday, had a sudden change of heart, influenced by a range of powerful stakeholders advocating for Gachagua’s political survival. However, the Deputy President is not resting easy, as he fights to hold onto his position in what has become a fierce contest for political dominance.
During a fiery address to supporters in Kiambu, Gachagua issued a stern warning, positioning himself as an essential pillar of the UDA’s leadership structure. “Our party of UDA has a President and Deputy President, and we were voted in as one ticket.
If you do not want Gachagua, that will finish UDA,” he declared, underscoring the potential collapse of the party if his ouster proceeds. His message was clear: removing him could bring down the very government he and Ruto fought to establish under the Kenya Kwanza coalition.
Despite his defiance, the push for impeachment has gained significant traction among MPs, with the motion set to be tabled next week.
The timing of a UDA Parliamentary Group (PG) meeting at State House has only added to the uncertainty, as political analysts speculate whether Gachagua can secure a last-minute reprieve from President Ruto or if the impeachment will proceed as planned.
For Gachagua, the stakes could not be higher. His political options are limited—he must either confront the impeachment head-on or resign to avoid the public embarrassment of being ousted.
Should the impeachment succeed, Gachagua would be disqualified from holding any public office, a devastating blow to his political ambitions, especially as he eyes a potential presidential bid in 2027. Resignation could provide a strategic way out, allowing him to retreat temporarily and regroup for a future political fight, but all signs point to his determination to stay in office.
His political strategy, heavily influenced by the grassroots Tanga Tanga movement that helped propel him to power, remains evident in his public appearances. During his recent rally, Gachagua revived the iconic chant, “Harambee – Usiguse Mlima,” symbolizing his determination to resist the mounting pressure. However, with the political tide seemingly turning against him, his once-effective strategies may no longer be enough.
The impeachment process has already attracted notable backers from across the political spectrum. Key opposition figures, including Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka and DAP-K’s Eugene Wamalwa, have thrown their weight behind Gachagua, providing him with crucial support.
This cross-party alliance, along with backing from a small but influential group of MPs, may be enough to tip the scales in his favor. However, the outcome is far from certain, and the political reprieve he seeks is not guaranteed.
Gachagua also faces betrayal from within his own political backyard. Many Mount Kenya MPs, once his staunch allies, have now turned against him, blaming him for their declining popularity in the region.
These MPs accuse Gachagua of alienating voters by labeling them as “traitors” and “collaborators,” leading to their fear of losing re-election in 2027. Some have positioned Gachagua as an existential threat to their political survival, heightening the tensions within UDA.
Still, there is hesitation among Mount Kenya leaders about leading the impeachment effort. Many fear that their constituents may not forgive them for taking down one of their own, creating an internal dilemma that has stalled efforts to push the motion forward, despite backing from over 280 MPs.
Kimilili MP Didmus Barasa, however, is undeterred. “We have the numbers, and we will move forward,” Barasa announced on Thursday, revealing that the impeachment motion is ready and could be debated as early as Tuesday if the Speaker grants approval.
Nandi Hills MP Bernard Kitur echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing national interests over personal alliances. “When faced with a decision between nationhood or friendship, choose nationhood. I have signed the motion,” Kitur stated on social media.
As pressure mounts, Narok Senator Ledama Ole Kina added his voice to the chorus of opposition, urging Gachagua to step down. “My friend Gachagua, just accept that the thrill is gone. It is time to fold,” Ole Kina tweeted, capturing the growing sentiment that the Deputy President’s political fortunes may be coming to an end.
With a Parliamentary Group meeting now called to reassess the situation, the coming days promise to be pivotal for both Gachagua and UDA.
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Gachagua Changes Tact to Save Self Ahead of Defining UDA PG
