Kenya High Court Suspends Deputy President's Impeachment

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OCT 2024

Above: Deputy President of Kenya, Rigathi Gachagua, addresses the media during a press conference at his official residence in Nairobi, on Oct. 7, 2024. Image copyright: Luis Tato/AFP via Getty Images

story last updated JAN 31

The Spin

Narrative A

Apart from being the first time this process has been used in Kenya, the impeachment of Gachagua is constitutional — and a popular move. Presidents have historically fired their deputies once their partners become more of a liability or threat than a supporter, so this series of events was to be expected.

The Conversation

Narrative B

It's unlikely that removing a scapegoat such as Gachagua from office would lead to any major development for governance in Kenya — and all of the impeachment drama is distracting the country from real issues affecting Kenyans. Rather than wasting time and energy, authorities should focus on addressing more pressing concerns.

Council on Foreign Relations