Members of Parliament have raised serious security concerns as plans for the impeachment of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua kicked off at the National Assembly.
With emotions running high, MPs have called for enhanced security measures for President William Ruto, lawmakers, and other key figures involved in the process, highlighting the sensitive nature of the impeachment proceedings.
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Dadaab MP Farah Maalim was among the first to voice concerns, urging Speaker Moses Wetang’ula to ensure the safety of President Ruto until the impeachment process is concluded.
“Given the political tensions, it is crucial that President Ruto’s security is intensified during this period. We cannot afford any security lapse while such a significant motion is under consideration,” Maalim said.
Further amplifying the call for heightened security, Suna East MP Junet Mohamed, a leading figure in the opposition, raised concerns about the safety of the 291 MPs who have appended their signatures in support of the impeachment motion.
He called on Speaker Wetang’ula to guarantee their protection leading up to the vote, warning of possible threats and intimidation.
“I want to get your assurance that the 291 MPs who have signed this motion of impeachment will have their safety and security guaranteed. We want all of them to turn up here on the day of voting. You know this thing and you know what can happen here,” Mohamed stated, referencing the potential for heightened political tension in the lead-up to the vote.
The calls for increased security come as Parliament begins to deliberate on the impeachment motion, spearheaded by Kibwezi West MP Mwengi Mutuse, who has accused DP Gachagua of constitutional violations.
Mutuse and other proponents of the motion have emphasized the importance of holding leaders accountable, but the process has also sparked fears of political fallout and instability.
MP Kimani Ichungwa also warned that Gachagua is not an ordinary man, saying caution should be taken when it comes to the MPs and Ruto’s security throughout the process.
“Mr Speaker you must direct the new Inspector General of police that all the 349 MPs of this house are safe. He must ensure that all members even those sitting in this committee and business of the house must be secured even when they are in their homes because I say this being priviy to the information of 26 June. And as Hon Junet has told you, we are not dealing with an ordinary man, we are dealing with a black man with a very black heart,” stated Ichungwa.
Speaker Wetang’ula faces mounting pressure to ensure the safety of all involved parties, both inside and outside the House. In his response, Wetang’ula acknowledged the concerns raised by the MPs and pledged that appropriate measures would be taken to maintain security and order throughout the proceedings.
The impeachment process has placed the National Assembly at the center of Kenya’s political landscape, with eyes on how MPs will navigate the complex dynamics of removing a sitting Deputy President.
With concerns about possible political interference and safety threats, the impeachment motion could mark a turning point in the country’s political discourse.
By Newshub