Public opinion divided over Gachagua's impeachment: TIFA reveals

 By Robert Mutasi 

Asurvey conducted by TIFA Research revealed that the country is still divided on whether Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua should be impeached or not.

Results of the poll conducted between October 1st and 4th, 2024, show the various opinions Kenyans have about the political future of the Deputy President.

Regional Differences in Opinion

The survey reveals marked regional differences of opinion. In the Mt. Kenya region, considered to be Gachagua's strong support base, 69% of residents opposed the impeachment motion. 

This is in sharp contrast to the number recorded in other regions, where 47% of the respondents supported the move2. Nationally, 41% of Kenyans were for the impeachment and 38% against it.

Reasons for Support and Opposition

Among those supporting the impeachment, the main reasons cited are ethnic discrimination and hate speech at 35%, followed by 20% of the supporters who feel that Gachagua has performed dismally and failed to deliver his promises. 

Corruption and abuse of office come third, mentioned by 13% of those in favor. On the opposing side, those against the impeachment say Gachagua is being unfairly targeted.

About 36 percent of those opposed feel that the Deputy President is a victim of political machinations. 

On the other hand, 18 percent commend his leadership and honesty, while 15 percent believe Gachagua should finish his term with President William Ruto.

Public Participation and Future Outlook

The public has also actively participated in the impeachment process. The public hearings started on October 4th, where citizens aired their opinions on the matter.

The results are expected from the Clerk's office of the National Assembly after collating all the submissions for this public feedback.

Looking ahead, the survey speculates on who might succeed Gachagua if he were to be removed from office. 

Kithure Kindiki leads the pack, with 37% reposing confidence in him as a replacement.

Results from the TIFA Research survey have pointed to the sharp divisions the country feels about the impeachment process against the Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. 

Whereas a good percent of the population is for the move, citing many grievances, a significant proportion of Kenyans, especially in the Mt. Kenya region, strongly feels opposite of that.

With the impeachment process already well underway, keenly watched is the next move, cognizant that its implication could reverberate pretty strongly with the Kenya political future.