Mixed Reactions in Kisii County as Impeachment Motion Against Deputy President Gachagua Gains Momentum

By orenge Wycliff

Kisii, Kenya – The political landscape in Kisii County is currently ablaze with fervent discussions and contrasting opinions regarding the impending impeachment of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. The atmosphere was charged during a recent public participation forum held at the Kisii Agricultural Training Centre, where community representatives voiced their opinions on this contentious issue.

The motion to impeach Gachagua has drawn a mixed bag of reactions, reflecting the complex political sentiments within the county. While some residents support the move, arguing that it is necessary for accountability, others vehemently oppose it, suggesting that such a focus diverts attention from pressing national issues.

Voices Against the Impeachment

Among the vocal opponents of the impeachment motion was Hon. Wilfred Monyenye, the Kisii Central Member of County Assembly (MCA). Speaking passionately at the forum, Monyenye articulated concerns that the motion is not only misguided but a distraction from critical issues that demand urgent attention. “There are serious issues of national importance that are supposed to be addressed—health, education, and social welfare,” he said. “Bringing the impeachment of the Deputy President into the discussion here is misguiding and diverts our attention from these glaring issues.”

Kisii Central MCA Wilfred Monyenye Addressing the Media at ATC, Kisii during the Public participation event. Photo | Orenge Wycliff

Monyenye’s sentiments resonated with many who attended the meeting. Residents expressed their frustration over the growing focus on political dramas instead of the challenges facing their communities. “We should be focused on salvaging students from poor backgrounds affected by the new punitive funding model in education,” one participant urged. “There are far more pressing matters that affect our daily lives than the fate of a politician.”

Support for the Impeachment

Conversely, voices advocating for the impeachment were equally compelling. Jared Orare, a young leader from the region, expressed that the impeachment of Gachagua was long overdue. He criticized the Deputy President for neglecting issues that affect the broader Kenyan populace while concentrating on regional concerns, particularly those of Mount Kenya. “Rigathi needs to go home and deal with the Mt. Kenya issues since he’s not ready to take care of the problems affecting all Kenyans,” Orare asserted.

This sentiment found some support among residents who believe that Gachagua’s performance has not met expectations. A handful of participants suggested a broader scope for accountability, arguing that if Gachagua is to be impeached, then President William Ruto should face similar scrutiny. “If we impeach Gachagua, then the President should also be impeached. They both have failed Kenyans,” one vocal supporter said. “This administration has been depicted with incompetence, and therefore both should go.”

Broader Concerns

The discussions in Kisii echoed a larger national debate. Many Kenyans are grappling with fundamental issues that directly impact their lives, such as healthcare accessibility and educational equity. Concerns surrounding the recent migration of the National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF) to the State Health Insurance Authority (SHA) were raised. Participants noted that this transition has severely affected service delivery in hospitals, rendering it ineffective and causing undue hardship for many.

Kisii residents at ATC, Kisii during Public Participation event’ Photo |Orenge Wycliff

“The issues affecting our healthcare system are far more critical than impeachment motions,” remarked another attendee. “We cannot afford to lose sight of these challenges in the political squabbles that seem to dominate the news.”

The National Assembly’s Upcoming Session

As public participation forums continue across the country, all eyes are now on the National Assembly, where Gachagua will appear on Tuesday, October 9, 2024, to defend himself against the charges laid against him. The outcome of this session could have significant implications, not just for Gachagua, but for the political landscape of the entire nation.

The evidence presented in the National Assembly will be critical. Observers expect a rigorous examination of the charges against Gachagua, with lawmakers weighing the merits of the claims against his defense. Following this, a vote will determine whether the Deputy President will be sent to the Senate, where he may further contest his fate.

Tensions Escalate

In an atmosphere thick with tension, the public participation events have not been without controversy. At a major gathering held at the Bomas of Kenya, a civic educator named Morara was reportedly attacked for presenting opposing views on the impeachment motion. Eyewitnesses described chaotic scenes as frustrated youth threw chairs in response to his remarks, leading to significant injuries. This incident has sparked discussions about the need for respectful dialogue in a democracy, highlighting the challenges of civic engagement in politically charged environments.

Conclusion

The impeachment motion against Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has ignited passionate debate in Kisii County and beyond. As communities grapple with pressing national issues, the political theater surrounding the Deputy President’s fate raises fundamental questions about leadership accountability and governance in Kenya.

As the October 9 session approaches, the nation holds its breath. Will the Deputy President manage to convince the National Assembly of his fitness to continue in office, or will this be a turning point that reshapes the political narrative in Kenya? Only time will tell as the unfolding drama captivates the attention of a nation yearning for change and accountability.

With contrasting views and heightened emotions, the discourse surrounding Gachagua’s impeachment serves as a reminder of the complex tapestry of Kenyan politics, where every voice counts and every opinion matters. The coming days will be pivotal in determining not only the fate of the Deputy President but also the future direction of Kenya’s leadership.

DP Gachagua is accused of various charges ranging from gross misconduct, acting contrary to the law among other charges.

By Orenge Wycliff_ Reporting from Kisii