Kenya’s impeached deputy president, Rigathi Gachagua, has said that President William Ruto will be responsible if any harm comes to him, following the withdrawal of his personal security detail after his recent impeachment.
Gachagua, who dismissed the charges leading to his impeachment as politically motivated, expressed concerns for his safety in a press briefing on Sunday.
“It’s the most unfortunate thing that has ever happened in this country that you can be so vicious to a man who helped you to be President,” Gachagua said, referencing his support for Ruto during the 2022 presidential elections. Gachagua’s comments come amid growing tension between him and Ruto, whose relationship has deteriorated in recent months.
Police spokeswoman Resila Onyango declined to comment immediately on the situation, saying she would look into the claims. Ruto’s spokesperson also deferred, stating that a comment would be made later.
Typically, security protection for senior politicians is reduced when they leave office in Kenya. However, Gachagua, who has launched a legal challenge against his impeachment, believes the withdrawal is premature, as he does not view his dismissal as final until the case is resolved.
Gachagua was impeached on Thursday on five out of 11 charges, including gross violation of the constitution and inciting ethnic hatred. The motion was backed by opposition lawmakers as well as allies of President Ruto. Gachagua has denied all allegations. Following the impeachment, Kenya’s parliament approved the appointment of Interior Minister Kithure Kindiki to replace Gachagua, though his swearing-in has been delayed due to legal challenges from Gachagua and others.
President Ruto, who has remained silent on the impeachment, made a call for national unity in his address during a national holiday celebration on Sunday, urging Kenyans to reject tribalism and promote cohesion.
Melissa Enoch
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