Impeached Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has issued a strong warning to his nominated successor, Kithure Kindiki, urging caution if he assumes office.
Gachagua, who was ousted by both the National Assembly and the Senate, warned Kindiki against challenging those in power, predicting that he too could be removed if he stepped out of line.
Kindiki was nominated as the new Deputy President by President William Ruto on Friday, following Gachagua’s impeachment.
However, a court order has temporarily blocked Kindiki’s swearing-in, pending the outcome of cases challenging the impeachment process.
Speaking on Sunday after being discharged from Karen Hospital, where he was admitted while Senators voted on his ouster, Gachagua dismissed his impeachment as a “charade.”
He accused the government of trying to install a “control freak” in his place, describing Kindiki as a professional too meek to challenge authority.
“The goal is to have someone who won’t ask questions. If he succeeds, they will likely make him sign an undated resignation letter to silence him if he ever tries to speak out,” Gachagua claimed.
During his media address, Gachagua accused President William Ruto of betrayal and even alleged two assassination attempts against him before the impeachment vote.
He recounted an incident in Kisumu on August 30, where undercover agents allegedly tried to poison his food, and a similar plot in Nyeri on September 3, targeting him and Kikuyu elders.
“I never thought Ruto could be this vicious,” Gachagua remarked, expressing shock at how a man he helped become president could turn against him so swiftly.
At present, the High Court has issued orders preventing Kindiki from assuming the office of Deputy President until the hearing of a petition filed by two individuals, David Munyi Mathenge and Peter Kamotho.
The court deemed the matter of “great national importance and urgency,” and Chief Justice Martha Koome has been asked to appoint a bench of judges to hear the case.
Justice Chacha Mwita also suspended the Senate’s resolution to uphold Gachagua’s impeachment, citing significant legal and public interest concerns.
The matter is set to be mentioned on October 24, when further directions will be given.
