United Democratic Alliance (UDA) officials are reportedly working to remove Rigathi Gachagua as deputy party leader following his impeachment as Deputy President.
President William Ruto leads the UDA party, with the party’s constitution specifying that the deputy president automatically serves as deputy party leader.
Gachagua, a stalwart in the party’s structure, has been a polarizing figure, openly voicing opinions that occasionally clash with the party’s top brass.
This rift has apparently ignited a power struggle, with some party members accusing Gachagua of stepping beyond his role and potentially jeopardizing UDA’s unity ahead of upcoming political battles.
This power struggle signals deeper ideological tensions within UDA, raising questions about the party’s direction and whether Gachagua’s ousting could be the first of several shifts within its ranks.
Inside Scheme Unveiled to Oust Gachagua and Expand UDA Leadership
UDA leaders had proposed adding two new deputy party leader positions, a move seen by some as a strategy to limit Gachagua’s influence. However, recent events suggest they may replace him as deputy party leader within two weeks, depending on the outcome of his ongoing court case challenging his impeachment.
Party insiders indicate that Ruto’s allies plan to install Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki as the new deputy party leader. Kindiki, nominated by Ruto as Gachagua’s replacement, awaits the final court ruling to assume office officially.
Upcoming NEC Meeting and Potential Expulsion
The UDA National Executive Council (NEC) is set to meet in the next two weeks to formalize Gachagua’s removal. Party leaders have hinted that this meeting could also initiate the process to expel him entirely from UDA, depending on the court’s ruling.
If ousted, Gachagua would likely face a challenging legal battle if he wishes to remain within UDA and may not be able to run under the party’s banner in 2027.
Kitutu Chache North MP and UDA National Treasurer Japhet Nyakundi stated, “We do not recognize Gachagua as UDA’s deputy party leader.” He confirmed that the NEC would soon appoint a replacement.
Political Fallout and New Alliances
Since Gachagua’s removal, UDA has seen other internal shifts. Former UDA Secretary General Cleophas Malala, a known Gachagua ally, was replaced by EALA member Hassan Omar as Ruto’s supporters sought to consolidate control.
Reports suggest President Ruto’s emerging alliance with former Prime Minister Raila Odinga could play a significant role in the 2027 elections.
Ruto has brought several Raila-aligned politicians into his Cabinet, ensuring support for Gachagua’s impeachment and signaling a broader strategy for the next election cycle.
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