Kenya’s parliament has approved the nomination of Kithure Kindiki as the new deputy president, following the impeachment of Rigathi Gachagua. President William Ruto nominated Kindiki as his deputy, a move that was supported by lawmakers in the lower house of parliament. Kindiki, a close ally of Ruto, has held the interior ministry post and was previously a senator for Tharaka-Nithi County.
Gachagua, who was impeached on multiple charges including corruption and undermining the government, has filed a court application to stop Kindiki’s appointment. Despite being absent from the Senate proceedings due to illness, Gachagua’s impeachment was upheld. He had previously supported Ruto in the election and helped secure votes from central Kenya but has since fallen out of favor.
Ruto’s decision to form a unity government and appoint opposition members followed protests against tax increases that turned violent. Kindiki will now have to be sworn in as deputy president, as the political landscape in Kenya continues to shift. Gachagua, who claims he is not guilty of the charges against him, has lost retirement benefits and the ability to hold public office. As the country prepares for the next election, these developments are likely to have a significant impact on the political landscape.
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