Gachagua Warns of Power Consolidation
This comes after President William Ruto nominated Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki to replace him as Deputy President.
Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. Photo/Capital News.
By Robert Mutasi
Kenya’s political landscape is once again embroiled in controversy as immeddiate former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has spoken out strongly after his impeachment.
Gachagua, in a pointed statement, accused President William Ruto of attempting to install a more submissive figure in his place.
This comes after President William Ruto nominated Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki to replace him as Deputy President.
Gachagua described the situation as an attempt to replace an elected Deputy President with a leader who would follow Ruto without question.
“The challenge we are being treated to is getting rid of an elected deputy president and appointing a control freak,” Gachagua stated, making it clear that he believes the move is aimed at consolidating power within the presidency.
In his remarks, Gachagua warned that Ruto seeks a deputy who will not challenge his authority.
He implied that the individual appointed to replace him, widely rumored to be Kindiki, would be expected to remain passive in decision-making.
“A fellow you appoint who cannot ask questions, who cannot say anything,” Gachagua said, underscoring his view that the replacement would lack autonomy or influence.
Gachagua went further to speculate on the control tactics that could be employed, suggesting that the new Deputy President would be asked to sign an undated resignation letter as a means of ensuring compliance.
“I am sure if he succeeds, he will be asked to sign an undated resignation letter so that in case he starts asking questions, he can just be told to resign,” Gachagua remarked, signaling his concern that this move could set a dangerous precedent for future leaders.
The comments highlight the growing tension between Gachagua and Ruto, with the Deputy President hinting at a broader strategy to weaken independent voices within the government.
As Interior CS Kindiki’s name circulates in discussions around a potential leadership change, the political environment in Kenya appears increasingly volatile.
Gachagua’s remarks also signal a deeper concern about the trajectory of democracy in Kenya, where elected leaders could be sidelined in favor of appointees loyal to the president.
The Deputy President’s pointed accusations suggest that the internal rift within the ruling coalition is far from over, and the looming leadership changes could have wide-reaching implications for the country’s governance.
As the situation unfolds, Kenyans will be watching closely to see if this political power struggle will lead to a significant reshuffling within the country’s leadership.
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