Kenya’s President Nominates Kithure Kindiki as New Deputy President After Gachagua's Removal

In a swift move following the impeachment of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, President William Ruto has nominated Interior Minister Kithure Kindiki as his new deputy president. Kindiki, a close ally of Ruto, had been a top contender for the running mate position during the 2022 elections.

The nomination, however, still awaits parliamentary approval. This decision follows Gachagua’s impeachment by the Kenyan Senate on Thursday, where senators voted on five out of eleven charges against him, including gross violation of the constitution.

Gachagua, who did not attend the proceedings, had requested a postponement due to being hospitalized with chest pains, but the senators declined the request. His absence and the refusal to delay the proceedings signaled the Senate's determination to remove him, especially after his falling out with President Ruto.

Gachagua has denied the charges, calling them politically motivated. His impeachment marks a significant shift in Kenya’s political landscape, and all eyes are now on Parliament to finalize the appointment of Kindiki as the new deputy president.