Kenya’s impeached Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua announced on Sunday that his security team had been withdrawn. He expressed concern for his safety and stated that President William Ruto would be accountable if anything were to happen to him.
Gachagua characterized the impeachment charges against him as politically motivated and unjust. “It’s the most unfortunate thing that has ever happened in this country,” he remarked, referencing his past support for Ruto’s presidential campaign in 2022.
Police spokeswoman Resila Onyango did not provide immediate comments about Gachagua’s security situation. She mentioned that she would investigate the claims regarding the withdrawal of protection.
Ruto’s spokesperson stated they would address the matter at a later time. In Kenya, senior protection for politicians is often reduced after leaving office.
Gachagua maintained that his situation is unique because he is currently challenging his impeachment in court. He does not consider his dismissal to be final.
The Deputy President was impeached on Thursday after parliament approved five out of eleven charges against him. These included gross constitutional violations and inciting ethnic hatred, with backing from opposition lawmakers and some of Ruto’s allies.
On Friday, parliament confirmed the appointment of Interior Minister Kithure Kindiki as Gachagua’s replacement. However, a court has since postponed Kindiki’s swearing-in, pending Gachagua’s legal challenges.
Ruto has not publicly commented on the impeachment proceedings, despite a noticeable rift with Gachagua in recent months. During a national holiday celebration on Sunday, Ruto called for unity and condemned “tribalism and exclusion” in the country.