By Grace Gilo
Tana River Senator Danson Mungatana has filed a censure motion in the Senate against Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
The senator emphasized that the Deputy President is recognized under the Constitution of Kenya as a State Officer, whose actions and demeanour must conform to the Constitution, as well as the overarching leadership and integrity standards outlined in the Leadership and Integrity Act
“That aware that, Article 260 of the Constitution of Kenya categorizes the Deputy President as a State Officer whose conduct and behavior shall abide by the provisions of Article 75 of the Constitution of Kenya and the general leadership and integrity code for state officers, contained in the Leadership and Integrity Act,” read the statement from the senator in part.
Additionally, he noted that according to the Constitution, the Deputy President serves as the principal assistant to the President, thereby embodying a symbol of national unity. The individual occupying this office is expected to consistently respect, uphold, and protect the Constitution, foster national unity, and promote appreciation for the diverse communities within Kenya.
“Further aware that pursuant to Article 147 of the Constitution, the holder of the Office of the Deputy President is the principal assistant to the President making the Office a symbol of national unity whose holder must at all times respect, uphold and safeguard the Constitution; promote and enhance the unity of the Nation; and promote respect for the diversity of the people and communities of Kenya,” noted the Tana River senator.
The Senator expressed concern that Hon. Rigathi Gachagua, E.G.H., has made several statements since assuming the role of Deputy President that pertain to employment opportunities for Kenyans in the public sector, the distribution of resources to devolved units, and inciting certain groups of Kenyans to disregard lawful directives issued by various county governments.
“Concerned that Hon. Rigathi Gachagua, E.G.H. on several occasions since his assumption to the Office of Deputy President, has made utterances, among others, regarding employment opportunities to Kenyans in the public service; allocation of resources to the devolved units; and incitement of a section of Kenyans to disobey lawful directives by some county governments,” stated Mungatana
Moreover, he stated that he is concerned that the public statements made by Hon. Rigathi Gachagua, E.G.H., have marginalized certain groups within the Kenyan populace, exacerbated tensions among different ethnic communities, and appear to contradict the provisions of Article 75 of the Constitution.
These actions are also seen as contrary to the national values and governance principles articulated in Article 10(2) of the Constitution, ultimately undermining the dignity of the Deputy President’s office.
“Now therefore the Senate, pursuant to Standing Order 101(1), expresses its displeasure and disappointment with the conduct of Hon. Rigathi Gachagua, E.G.H., as the Deputy President of Kenya and censures him,” he added.