In a significant shift within President William Ruto’s United Democratic Alliance (UDA), the party’s National Executive Council has officially removed Rigathi Gachagua from the position of Deputy Party Leader. This decision comes weeks after Gachagua’s impeachment as Deputy President by the National Assembly, with the Senate subsequently upholding the ruling.
Announcing the leadership change, UDA National Chair Governor Cecily Mbarire cited the party’s constitution, noting that the removal was carried out in accordance with Article 8.2, as well as Articles 75 (3) and 145 (7) of the Constitution of Kenya. “H.E. Rigathi Gachagua is unable to perform the duties of the office of Deputy Party Leader and subsequently ceases to hold office as Deputy Party Leader,” the official communique stated.
The UDA has appointed DP Kithure Kindiki as Gachagua’s replacement, marking his official elevation to Deputy Party Leader with immediate effect.
Kindiki’s appointment, ratified by the National Assembly and celebrated with a swearing-in ceremony at KICC Grounds, drew attendance from high-ranking officials across the Executive, Judiciary, and Legislature.
Following the changes, President William Ruto named the former Interior Cabinet Secretary as Kindiki’s successor as Deputy President, leaving a vacancy in the Interior Ministry. Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has been temporarily overseeing Interior Ministry duties pending a permanent appointment.
This reshuffle highlights the ongoing evolution within UDA’s leadership as the party positions itself for the future.