UDA gears up to oust Gachagua from party leadership

The United Democratic Alliance (UDA) is gearing up to expel impeached Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua from his role as the party's deputy leader.

Acting UDA Secretary General Hassan Omar on Monday confirmed the plans during a press briefing in Eldoret, citing Mr Gachagua's alleged misconduct and divisive politics as key reasons for the move.

Mr Omar stated that Gachagua’s ousting was necessary to align the party's leadership with the country’s Constitution, which ties the role of the Deputy President to that of deputy party leader. 

With Gachagua's impeachment finalised and his removal as Deputy President, the party now intends to install a new deputy leader. But it should be noted that Mr Gachagua has moved to court to save his job as the second in command.

"The spirit of our Constitution is that the person serving as the Deputy President should also serve as the Deputy Leader of the party. If they are no longer the Deputy President, they must step aside and allow someone else to take over as the Deputy Leader of UDA," Mr Omar said.

Gachagua’s impeachment, which was supported by elected representatives within the party, has been a hot topic in the political arena.

Mr Omar claimed that Mr Gachagua had created divisions within the party by promoting tribalism and regionalism, which hampered President William Ruto's ability to lead effectively.

"Tribalism, dividing people into groups, and speaking about shares and entitlements had left the President without the opportunity to work," Mr Omar asserted. 

He expressed confidence that with Mr Gachagua out of the leadership structure, the party could now focus on helping President Ruto deliver on his campaign promises to the Kenyan people.

This decision comes as the UDA party backs the appointment of Interior Cabinet Secretary Prof Kithure Kindiki as the new Deputy President.

Mr Omar expressed optimism that the transition would enable the ruling coalition to implement its agenda over the next three(3) years.

The judiciary is still reviewing pending legal matters, as embattled Gachagua’s legal team and other proxies filed an appeal challenging the process of swearing in Prof Kindiki as the next DP. 

However, Mr Omar reiterated the party’s commitment to moving forward with the leadership changes.

The developments signal the end of Mr Gachagua’s political tenure within UDA, as the party looks to stabilise its leadership and “foster national unity”.