MPs Vote to Impeach Gachagua: Is Ndindi Nyoro Positioning for the Deputy President’s Role?

In a historic vote that could dramatically alter Kenya's political landscape, the National Assembly overwhelmingly supported the impeachment of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. A total of 281 MPs voted in favor of the motion, 44 opposed it, and one abstained. The real buzz, however, surrounds the absence of two high-profile MPs—Kiharu’s Ndindi Nyoro and Embakasi East’s Babu Owino—sparking intense speculation about their political maneuvers.

A Vote to Remember: Who Said "Yes" and "No"

The impeachment vote brought together an unusual coalition of MPs across party lines. Among those who voted yes were:

• Timothy Wanyonyi (Westlands)
• Samuel Atandi (Alego Usonga)
• Irene Njoki (Bahati)
• Farah Maalim (Dadaab)
• John Kiarie (Dagoretti South)
• Peter Kaluma (Homa Bay Town)
• Beatrice Elachi (Dagoretti North)
• Didmus Barasa (Kimilili)
• Robert Pukose (Endebess)
• George Aladwa (Makadara)
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These MPs voiced their dissatisfaction with Gachagua, aligning with accusations of corruption, constitutional violations, and abuse of office. Even figures like Otiende Amolo (Rarieda) and Millie Odhiambo (Suba North), known for their sharp criticisms of the government, found themselves in agreement on this occasion.

On the other hand, notable defenders of Gachagua who voted no included:

• Martha Wangari (Gilgil)
• Wanjiku Muhia (Kipipiri)
• George Koimburi (Juja)
• Onesmus Ngogoyo (Kajiado North)
• Joseph Kamau (Roy Sambu)
• Jessica Mbalu (Kibwezi East)
• 
  

Ndindi Nyoro’s Silence Speaks Volumes

As the numbers rolled in, the absence of Ndindi Nyoro (Kiharu) raised more than a few eyebrows. Nyoro, a close ally of President William Ruto, is rumored to be a top contender for the Deputy President position should Gachagua’s impeachment be upheld. His decision to sit out the vote has fueled speculation that he might be positioning himself as a safer, less controversial choice for the role.

Political insiders suggest that Nyoro’s absence was a calculated move to avoid alienating either camp. By not casting a vote, he sidestepped the potential backlash from Ruto's supporters while keeping the door open for a possible elevation. "If Gachagua goes, the stars may align for Nyoro," whispered one analyst. "And with Ruto needing a fresh start in the DP slot, Nyoro’s absence might just be the strategic silence he needed."

Babu Owino’s Mysterious Disappearance

Equally curious was the absence of Babu Owino (Embakasi East), known for his fierce criticisms of Ruto’s administration and for frequently taking center stage during political controversies. Babu’s decision to skip the impeachment vote left many wondering about his strategy. Could this be a sign of shifting alliances or simply a tactical retreat? Some in the opposition speculate that Babu might be rethinking his long-term political game plan, especially if he sees potential in working with Ruto’s administration down the line.

What the Numbers Mean for Gachagua

With 281 votes in favor, the impeachment motion now moves to the Senate, where it will face further scrutiny. Should the Senate uphold the decision, Gachagua’s position as Deputy President could be officially vacated, leaving a void in Ruto’s administration. Proponents of the motion, like Mutuse Mwengi (Kibwezi West), have vowed to vigorously defend the decision. "I am confident that the Senate will also uphold this decision, and Kenya will have a better Deputy President," Mwengi stated during the heated debate.

However, not all MPs were swayed by the accusations. Jessica Mbalu (Kibwezi East) and Joseph Kamau (Roy Sambu) highlighted what they described as a lack of concrete evidence in the case, labeling the impeachment process as "politically motivated." They questioned whether the move was genuinely in the interest of the people or simply a political ploy to weaken Ruto’s administration.

What Happens Next?

With Gachagua's fate now in the hands of the Senate, political observers are keenly watching for the next moves from key players like Ndindi Nyoro. If Gachagua is indeed ousted, the spotlight will inevitably turn to potential replacements, and Nyoro could be Ruto’s ace in the hole.

For now, though, the decision to impeach has set off ripples across Kenya’s political waters, and the absence of vocal figures like Nyoro and Owino ensures that the drama is far from over. As Gachagua prepares his defense and the Senate braces for its next showdown, the battle lines are drawn—and Kenya's political future remains up for grabs.