In a surprising move that signalled Rigathi Gachagua’s declining support in his home region, at least 9 Senators who were perceived to be close allies of former deputy President abandoned him at last minute.
Nyeri Senator Wahome Wamatinga,Tabitha Keroche (Nakuru), Kathure Murungi (Meru), Alexander Mundigi (Embu), and Mwenda Gataya (Tharaka Nithi).
Nominated senators Veronica Maina, Karen Nyamu, and George Mbugua also voted in favour of Gachagua’s impeachment, further demonstrating a significant shift in the political landscape against the embattled former Deputy President.
The embattled former Deputy President arrived at the Senate earlier on Thursday but could not attend the afternoon session, where he was to testify against the allegations against him.
His lawyers said he had been admitted with severe chest pains at the Karen Hospital, and requested that the Senate session be halted until Gachagua had recovered, a plea which was not granted.
The senators went ahead to vote out Gachagua from office, in a move which he had earlier indicated was a political lynching which had the nod of the president.
By Nairobi