Karua calls out Parliament for ‘lack of independence’ in Gachagua impeachment
Narc-Kenya Party Leader Martha Karua. File photo
Narc-Kenya leader Martha Karua has strongly condemned the National Assembly's handling of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua impeachment, referring to it as "mob lynching" and a failure to uphold parliamentary independence.
Speaking on Wednesday, Ms Karua expressed concern that the impeachment process lacked the constitutional threshold necessary to remove the Deputy President from office.
While acknowledging that the Constitution under Article 145 and 150 provides a framework for such actions, she noted that the recent proceedings exposed weaknesses in Kenya's governance structures.
"Rigathi Gachagua is no saint, but like any citizen, he deserves a fair process, not mob lynching," Ms Karua stated.
She emphasized the importance of building robust systems that ensure justice is served fairly, even to political adversaries.
"This isn't about Gachagua as a person, it's about creating a system that treats everyone with fairness, regardless of their political standing," she added.
Known for her firm stance on governance issues, Ms Karua criticised Parliament for being a "rubber stamp" of the Executive, referencing the passage of the Finance Bill, 2024 despite widespread public opposition.
"When the National Assembly fails to maintain its independence, we are all walking on dangerous ground," she warned.
In her address, Ms Karua praised the 44 Members of Parliament who opposed the impeachment, acknowledging their measured approach.
However, she cautioned those who were in favour, reminding them of the fleeting nature of power. “Gachagua's current predicament should serve as a lesson that all power is temporary, and tomorrow, it could be you.”
Ms Karua further highlighted pressing national issues that require more attention, such as abductions, a deteriorating economy, and the controversial university funding model.
She urged Kenyans to unite in holding leaders accountable, given the evident inability of the National Assembly to act independently, stating, “It’s up to citizens now to stand up against poor governance.”