Embakasi North MP James Gakuya, an ally of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, has made explosive allegations. He claimed that Members of Parliament (MPs) received Ksh500,000 to vote in favor of Gachagua’s impeachment motion.
Speaking on K24, Gakuya stated he had credible reports of bribery involving 282 MPs. He alleged that these MPs received messages asking them to remain after normal house business concluded. Gakuya, however, did not provide evidence for his claims, including the text message or the sender’s identity.
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When asked about the amount each MP received, Gakuya claimed, “It was like Ksh500,000.” He mentioned that most MPs received this sum, although he did not know if some received different amounts. “I don’t expect that there could be two tiers,” he added, suggesting a uniformity in the alleged bribes.
Gachagua’s Impeachment
The National Assembly’s vote on October 8 stunned the country. A total of 282 MPs from various parties supported the impeachment motion, while only 44 voted against it.
Gachagua’s defense, aired during a 90-minute broadcast before the impeachment, failed to sway the majority. He faced serious accusations, including allegations of accumulating Ksh5.2 billion through questionable means during his term. Gachagua denied these claims, asserting that much of the contested wealth belonged to his late brother, Nderitu Gachagua.
The debate leading to the impeachment also focused on allegations of tribalism against Gachagua. Critics argued that his statements alienated regions outside his home area of Mount Kenya. Public participation revealed widespread discontent; a survey showed 41% of Kenyans supported the motion, while 38% opposed it.
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Interestingly, Mount Kenya recorded 68% opposition to the impeachment motion, indicating regional loyalty to Gachagua despite the national sentiment.
Upcoming Senate Hearing for Gachagua
Next week, the Senate will conduct hearings on Gachagua’s impeachment. During these sessions, the Senate will act as a quasi-judicial body to determine Gachagua’s fate. A proposed motion to form an 11-member committee, raised by Senate Majority Leader Aaron Cheruiyot, failed to garner support.
Speaker Amason Kingi confirmed that Gachagua will be allowed to call witnesses. The Senate will carefully review the evidence presented before deciding whether to uphold the impeachment motion. If the Senate votes to impeach Gachagua, he may take the matter to court.
