By: Cynthia Masibo
The ongoing political debate surrounding Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s possible impeachment has taken a new turn, with Central Organization of Trade Unions (COTU) Secretary General Francis Atwoli weighing in. Atwoli has called for a critical re-evaluation of the position of the Deputy President, arguing that the current structure creates unnecessary tensions within the government.
In his remarks, Atwoli reiterated his earlier stance that the Deputy President’s role should be an appointment by the President rather than a running mate elected alongside the Head of State. He argued that the current model gives the Deputy President a perception of equal authority to the President, which he believes contributes to the challenges being witnessed.
“The Deputy President should be an appointee of the President, because once he becomes a running mate, he feels he is also a President,” Atwoli asserted. He went further to suggest that the Deputy President should remain in the background unless directly instructed by the President to address any matters. “We can’t have two Presidents at a time,” he added.
Atwoli’s comments come amidst heightened political tensions following the filing of a censure motion against Deputy President Gachagua by Tana River Senator Danson Mungatana. The Senator’s motion, which was submitted to the Senate on Monday, accuses the Deputy President of engaging in divisive politics and betraying his oath of office.
Despite these developments, Gachagua’s allies, including National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah, have dismissed claims of an impeachment. Ichung’wah stated last week that there were no such motions being prepared, describing the speculation as political mischief. However, the political dynamics surrounding Gachagua have placed him in an increasingly isolated position within the government.
In recent days, the Deputy President has appeared to fight back against what he perceives as attempts to undermine his role. During an interview on Citizen TV last Friday, Gachagua lamented being removed from President William Ruto’s WhatsApp group, an incident he referred to as indicative of his growing exclusion from the inner workings of the administration.
In an effort to regain political footing, Gachagua has embarked on a series of public rallies aimed at endearing himself to voters.
As the debate over his position intensifies, Atwoli’s call for a re-evaluation of the Deputy President’s role raises questions about whether the current structure of government fosters the cooperation and unity necessary for effective governance.
Mt Kenya Times