RONGO, Kenya — Rarieda MP Otiende Amollo has issued a stern warning to former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, threatening to table a motion that could permanently bar him from holding public office in Kenya.
Speaking on Sunday during a community fundraising event in Rongo, Mr Amollo accused the former DP of fuelling ethnic tensions and refusing to change his tone, even after being impeached.
“Every time you open your mouth, it’s clear you never learnt your lesson,” Mr Amollo said to the crowd. “We impeached you under Article 75 of the Constitution. That should have been enough, but maybe we didn’t go far enough.”
Gachagua was removed from office by the Senate in 2024 after a heated impeachment process that cited abuse of office and conduct unbecoming of a national leader. Now, critics say his recent political moves are evidence that he has returned to old habits.
Since launching his new political outfit, the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) last month, Gachagua has been on a relentless campaign trail. His aim: weaken the influence of President William Ruto and rally support ahead of the 2027 general election.
But his critics, especially those aligned with the ruling Kenya Kwanza coalition, accuse him of stoking tribal sentiment for political gain.
“He has become reckless,” said a senior Kenya Kwanza MP who requested anonymity. “He is dividing the country along ethnic lines just to stay relevant.”
Gachagua has defended his actions as part of a “people-driven agenda” and insists he is exercising his democratic rights. However, Mr Amollo believes Parliament can—and should—take a stronger stance.
“If you keep up with that kind of talk,” Amollo warned, “we will come back with a special motion under Article 75(3). That article says anyone removed from office under Article 75 can be blocked from ever holding public office again. Let’s be clear—there will be consequences.”
The Kenyan Constitution’s Article 75 deals with the conduct of State officers and provides grounds for disqualification if found in violation.
Legal experts say Amollo’s warning holds weight, but the motion would need broad political support to pass. “It’s not an easy process,” said constitutional lawyer Alice Mutua. “But it’s possible, especially if more leaders rally behind it.”
As the 2027 elections draw closer, tensions between former allies have grown sharper. Gachagua, once a staunch supporter of President Ruto, has now become one of his loudest critics. His departure from the ruling party and the creation of the DCP have only deepened the rift.
The coming months are likely to test not just Gachagua’s political strength, but Kenya’s ability to manage dissent without tipping into division.
“Gachagua has every right to form a party,” said political analyst Joseph Mwangi. “But if his message threatens national unity, then it becomes a constitutional matter—not just politics.”
For now, Gachagua remains defiant. But the heat from Parliament is rising. And with Article 75 looming, his next words could determine whether his political future remains intact—or gets shut down for good.
