A fresh wave of political tremors is shaking the foundation of Kenya Kwanza, the ruling coalition, as vocal Kapseret MP Oscar Sudi has dropped a bombshell, hinting at a possible arrest of impeached Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
This startling revelation comes amid deepening internal discord over the government’s handling of recent youth-led protests, which have rocked the country for weeks.
The protests, initially sparked by opposition to the now-withdrawn Finance Bill 2024, evolved into a powerful expression of national discontent, particularly among Gen Z and millennial citizens. As the demonstrations intensified, so did the cracks within Kenya Kwanza, with senior leaders divided on whether to suppress or engage the protestors.
Oscar Sudi, a close ally of President William Ruto and a perceived power broker within the inner circle, suggested during a recent address that certain political actors “must face consequences” for allegedly fueling dissent within government ranks.
His pointed remarks, widely interpreted as a veiled reference to Deputy President Gachagua, have added fuel to speculation that the second-in-command may be facing political isolation, or worse, legal action.
Gachagua, who has increasingly distanced himself from some of Ruto’s policies and sought to position himself as a voice for Mt. Kenya’s economic grievances, has been vocal in criticizing the administration’s approach to the youth protests. His calls for dialogue and reconciliation with protestors have won him praise from some quarters but also raised eyebrows among loyalists to the President.
Observers believe Sudi’s statements may signal a broader strategy to neutralize dissent within the coalition, even if it means turning against former allies. Political analysts warn that any move to arrest or sideline the Deputy President could plunge the ruling alliance into a full-blown crisis and further erode public confidence already battered by unrest.
