A section of Mt Kenya MPs has demanded that President William Ruto assure them that any replacement for Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua will come from their region, ahead of the highly anticipated National Assembly debate on Tuesday.
The MPs, led by Gatundu North MP Elijah Njoroge Kururia, made this demand during a press briefing on Sunday evening, as reported by Citizen Digital.
“We have no problem with Gachagua’s impeachment as long as he is replaced by another from our region,” Kururia and his colleagues emphasized.
They insisted that regional representation must be upheld to maintain Mt Kenya’s political influence in national leadership.
The upcoming debate will see MPs vote on a motion of no confidence against Gachagua, who faces accusations of corruption, tribalism, and sabotage.
Among the allegations against him is that he demanded KSh 8 billion as an “exit package” from President Ruto, reportedly banging the table during a State House meeting when Ruto refused his request.
The MPs pushing for Gachagua’s removal argue that his actions have been detrimental to the government’s unity, accusing him of divisive politics that have alienated key regions.
As tensions rise, all eyes are on Tuesday’s debate, which could lead to significant shifts within the Kenya Kwanza coalition.
Political analysts predict that the outcome could deepen the divisions within Ruto’s government, especially if Gachagua is removed from office without a clear successor from Mt Kenya.
The fate of the Deputy President now lies in the hands of the National Assembly, which will decide whether to endorse the motion of no confidence or allow him to retain his position.
The Mt Kenya region, a key political stronghold, is expected to play a crucial role in shaping the final outcome.