Nairobi, Kenya – August 27, 2024: Tana River Senator Danson Mungatana has filed a censure motion against Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, accusing him of conduct unbecoming of a state officer. Popularly known as the "crocodile eater," Mungatana expressed concern over Gachagua's public behavior, arguing that it falls short of the constitutional standards required of his office.
Allegations Against Gachagua's Conduct
In the notice of the motion, Senator Mungatana outlined the Deputy President’s constitutional obligations as a state officer, referencing Article 260 of the Kenyan Constitution, which mandates that the conduct of such officials be governed by the Leadership and Integrity Act. Mungatana emphasized that the Deputy President’s role as the principal assistant to the President is symbolic of national unity, and that Gachagua’s conduct has failed to meet these standards.
"Article 260 of the constitution categorizes the deputy president as a state officer whose conduct and behaviors shall abide by the provisions of Article 75 of the Constitution of Kenya and the general leadership and integrity code for state officers," Mungatana’s notice read in part.
Concerns Over Remarks and Public Behavior
The senator raised concerns about several remarks made by Gachagua, which he argued disrespected the office of the presidency and heightened ethnic tensions in the country. Mungatana specifically cited Gachagua’s public comments on employment opportunities in the public service, resource allocation to devolved units, and statements that allegedly incited sections of the Kenyan population to disobey lawful directives issued by county governments.
According to Mungatana, these utterances go against the national values and principles of governance outlined in Article 10(2) of the Constitution, which include unity, respect, and integrity.
"The conduct of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua is against the national values and principles of governance and demeaning to the high office of the Deputy President of the Republic," Mungatana argued in the motion.
Political Tensions Over Gachagua's Leadership
Mungatana’s move to censure Gachagua comes at a time of mounting political tensions within the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party. Gachagua recently warned President William Ruto to avoid “betrayal politics” amid talks of an impending impeachment attempt against the Deputy President by a faction within the party.
The senator’s motion amplifies the ongoing discord within UDA, where a segment of party members reportedly support efforts to oust Gachagua due to dissatisfaction with his leadership and public statements.
Next Steps
As Mungatana’s censure motion advances through the parliamentary process, it adds to the growing challenges faced by Deputy President Gachagua. The motion could lead to further scrutiny of his conduct and potentially impact his political future. Gachagua, however, has not responded to the censure motion at the time of publication.
This latest development underscores the widening rifts within Kenya's political leadership as the country navigates complex issues of governance, national unity, and leadership integrity.