Gachagua, Allies Face New Challenges As UDA Plans Massive Reshuffle
As the political realities of the DP’s impeachment become clearer, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and his allies face new challenges.
Senators decided on Thursday night to uphold five of eleven allegations, thereby confirming his expulsion from office.
Even before the dust settles, it appears the former second-in-command is in for more unpleasant surprises.
MPs have already demanded that Gachagua be examined by both the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations on charges including the accumulation of more than Sh5.2 billion in wealth.
In his reply on Thursday, Senate Majority Whip Boni Khalwale asked that the charges be thoroughly investigated.
In leadership integrity is everything pic.twitter.com/xQHwk4CxfY
— Dr Boni Khalwale, CBS (@DrBKhalwale) October 18, 2024
“Even as we ask the DP to leave office, we must insist that the DCI and EACC and other investigative agencies must pursue this matter beyond this vote,” Khalwale said.
“I have on mind, the activities of the intricate web of companies up to 22, the reason I believe young Mutuse (Kibwezi West Mwengi Mutuse) could not bring all these, is because effort requires money, it requires time to do all that research.”
The ex-DP is also facing not only party dissolution but also removal as the ruling UDA deputy party leader, a post reserved by the outfit’s constitution for the Deputy President.
Last month, UDA acting Secretary General Hassan Omar hinted at plans to oust Gachagua from the party.
UDA SG Hassan Omar stated that
— Frank Mtetezi (ʙᴀꜰ)🇰🇪 (@FrankMtetezi) September 29, 2024
Should the impeachment motion sail through,The immediate concern would be to eject DP Rigathi Gachagua as a member and the Deputy Party leader of UDA Party, it's a change or Perish moment for the son from Mathira , Mt Kenya terrain has changed . pic.twitter.com/HYxNGgYQ1Q
“In fact, if that motion of impeachment sails through, our immediate concern then will be to eject him also as a member of the party,” he said.
“You cannot be found to be incompetent, grossly undermining the constitution and national unity and continue to be a ranking member of the party.”
If Gachagua fails to overcome his impeachment through the legal process, he will be permanently forbidden from holding elective or public office during his lifetime.
All of this adds to Gachagua’s long list of problems, which include walking out empty-handed after losing all of his lucrative exit incentives.
Gachagua, like his predecessors (retired vice/deputy presidents), is legally entitled to a large package, which includes a monthly pension equivalent to 80 percent of his last monthly salary upon leaving office.
A retired DP is also entitled to a lump sum payout upon retirement, which is computed as one year’s salary paid for each term in office.
Other incentives include two saloon automobiles with engine capacities of no more than 2000cc, which must be replaced every four years, and a fuel allowance equal to 15% of the office holder’s current monthly pay.
Furthermore, the DP is allocated one four-wheel drive vehicle with an engine capacity of no more than 3000 cc, which must be replaced once every four years.
He is also qualified for complete medical and hospital coverage, which includes both local and international treatment, through a respectable insurance firm. This includes the spouse.
Retirement Benefits
The Retirement Benefits Act of 2015 states that if a designated officer violates the Constitution willfully, these lifetime privileges and income will be eliminated.
Gachagua’s pals are not immune either. According to the Star, a plot is underway to remove his foot soldiers who voted to save him in the two houses.
Those said to be targeted include MPs who hold lucrative posts in the House who defied the ruling coalition by supporting the beleaguered DP during the impeachment vote.
A senior Kenya Kwanza MP familiar with the ruling party’s inner workings said that plans are in the works to strike as soon as the House votes on the ouster bid.
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A Parliamentary Group conference will be held to decide on the replacements after the dust settles, according to insiders who spoke to the Star.
The majority of those who will be shown the doors are Members of Parliament who hold the positions of head and vice-chair of several committees.
Parliamentary committees have broad authority to approve government policies and prepare the budget, and they are essential to the bicameral House’s functions.
Given that the bulk of persons targeted are from the restive region, the action could intensify the tense ties in Kenya Kwanza and possibly lead to an implosion within Mount Kenya.
Gachagua, Allies Face New Challenges As UDA Plans Massive Reshuffle
