Security was tightened ahead of the Gachagua impeachment vote

Security officials are on high alert ahead of senators’ expected crucial vote on the fate of Vice President Rigathi Gachagua.

The impeachment trial continues Thursday with cross-examinations and re-examinations of witnesses.

Before the debate, which will culminate in the vote, Gachagua will be given the opportunity to give his evidence before being cross-examined.

Police officers were on standby Thursday morning following protests observed in Kirinyaga on Wednesday.

This is to respond to any incidents that may be reported following the outcome.

Intelligence reports said residents, particularly in some counties in central Kenya, were planning protests if senators upheld the National Assembly’s decision to impeach Gachagua.

In order to remove the DP from office, at least 45 of the 67 senators must agree.

Eleven charges are filed against Gachagua.

GSU and riot police officers have been deployed to identified locations specifically in Central where such incidents are likely to occur. Officials in the city of Nairobi are also on high alert.

During the Kirinyaga incident on Wednesday, residents of Kirinyaga stormed Kagio town demanding the Senate to save the DP. The angry residents barricaded the Kutus-Sagana Highway and expressed their support for him.

They also said they would send messages to Kirinyaga Senator James Murango to vote against the impeachment of the deputy president.

“Gachagua and President William Ruto stood here. They urged us to support them in 2022; Why Gachagua now?” asked Stephen Kariuki.