Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua seeks forgiveness amid impeachment pressure
Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has made a heartfelt plea for forgiveness from President William Ruto and the Kenyan public as he faces impending impeachment proceedings. This unprecedented move comes in the wake of increasing pressure from Members of Parliament (MPs) who have expressed their desire to see Gachagua removed from office.
On Sunday, October 6, Gachagua publicly acknowledged his missteps, stating he hoped to mend any rifts with President Ruto, particularly during a time when his boss had remained silent amid the impeachment discussions. His plea follows a turbulent weekend characterized by public forums across various constituencies, where Kenyans were invited to voice their opinions on the Deputy President’s potential impeachment.
The feedback from these forums has been overwhelmingly critical, with many constituents expressing dissatisfaction with Gachagua’s performance. A significant number of MPs, including some from his own political base, have voiced their support for his removal, intensifying the scrutiny he faces as the impeachment vote approaches.
In his emotional address, Gachagua implored Ruto for forgiveness if he had wronged him and extended this request also from his spouse, suggesting that personal grievances may have contributed to the political turmoil. “If I have wronged you, I ask for your forgiveness,” Gachagua said, emphasizing his commitment to serve the interests of all Kenyans, including those who did not vote for him in the last election.
The Deputy President’s appeal comes as MPs are set to cast their votes on Tuesday, October 8, to decide whether to uphold the impeachment motion. Gachagua has also urged Kenyans who feel he has not adequately represented them to reconsider their stance, highlighting his willingness to listen and adapt to the public’s needs.
“Today, I ask for your forgiveness as I take responsibility for my actions and the discontent they may have caused,” he added, reaching out to all citizens in a bid to regain their trust.
As the political landscape in Kenya becomes increasingly fraught with divisions, Gachagua’s call for reconciliation signals an attempt to navigate the turbulent waters ahead. Whether his plea will resonate with the MPs and the public remains to be seen, as the countdown to the impeachment vote continues.
