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Impeaching a Deputy President in Kenya is not an easy task. It can be done through two ways: impeachment or on grounds of incapacity. The Constitution outlines the process for removal. The Senate has a role in determining resolutions to remove the President or Deputy President from office. The grounds for impeachment include gross violation of the Constitution or any law, committing a crime, or gross misconduct.
To impeach the Deputy President, an MP can move a motion for impeachment. The MP must be supported by at least a third of all members. The motion is based on specific grounds. If at least two-thirds of the National Assembly members support the motion, the Senate is informed. A special committee is appointed to investigate the allegations. The Deputy President has the right to be represented during the investigations.
If the special committee finds the allegations substantiated, the Senate votes on each impeachment charge. If at least two-thirds of the Senate members vote to uphold any charge, the Deputy President is removed from office. Still, if the allegations are unsubstantiated, the Deputy President continues to hold office. In cases of incapacity, a different process is followed involving an investigation into the Deputy President’s physical or mental capacity.
The process of impeaching a Deputy President in Kenya involves a thorough investigation and a voting process by the Senate. It is crucial for the allegations to be substantiated for the Deputy President to be removed from office. The Constitution provides a clear framework for the impeachment process, ensuring transparency and fairness in the proceedings.
Impeachment Process of Deputy President
The process of impeaching the Deputy President involves the establishment of a tribunal comprising three members. The three members are a judge. The Chief Justice nominates the judge. An advocate is nominated by the body regulating advocates. A nominee of the Deputy President is also included. If the Deputy President is incapable of nominating, a family member can be the nominee. The tribunal must report its findings to the Chief Justice. It must also report to the Speaker of the National Assembly. This must be done within 14 days of appointment. The Speaker then presents the tribunal’s report to the National Assembly within seven days.
The tribunal’s report is final and not open to appeal. If the Deputy President is deemed capable by the tribunal, the Speaker announces this in the National Assembly. But, if the tribunal finds the Deputy President incapable, the National Assembly votes on whether to ratify the report. If a majority of members support the report, the Deputy President is removed from office. This process ensures accountability and oversight in the highest levels of government.
Recent political developments have seen allegations of senior UDA officials plotting the ouster of Deputy President Gachagua. These officials are trying to advance their own political agendas. Despite this, Gachagua has affirmed his commitment to remaining in government, dismissing the rumors as mere noise. The political landscape is witnessing strategic realignments. Individuals are seeking to capitalize on shifting dynamics to secure their positions and influence within the political sphere.
The impeachment process and political maneuverings underscore the complexities and power struggles within the political arena. As alliances shift and interests realign, individuals at the highest echelons of power face scrutiny and challenges to their positions. The interplay between legal processes, political ambitions, and public perception shapes the governance landscape. It highlights the importance of transparency, accountability, and democratic principles in upholding the integrity of leadership roles.
