Former Vice President Rigathi Gachagua was removed from his position in Kenya on charges of corruption, incitement to ethnic divisions, and supporting anti-government protests. It has been suggested that the removal had the backing of President William Ruto, who nominated Kithure Kindiki as the new vice president the following day. This has highlighted divisions within the ruling United Democratic Alliance and the friction between Ruto and Gachagua, both members of this alliance.
Gachagua has challenged his removal in the High Court in Nairobi, claiming that the charges against him are unfounded and that the hearings were unfair. During the removal hearings in the Senate, the former vice president had to be taken to the hospital with chest pains, and his lawyers requested a postponement of several days.
Gachagua's removal has drawn criticism from his supporters, who have deemed the process rushed and unjust. The former vice president was accused of insubordination for opposing government policy on forced evictions during heavy rains that caused flooding and loss of life.
On the other hand, a High Court in Nairobi cleared the way for the new vice president's assumption of office, despite an ongoing court case questioning Gachagua's removal. The three-judge court in Nairobi overturned the suspension order of Kindiki's swearing-in, arguing that such a measure would create a political vacuum in the country.
