Make Mudavadi Deputy President, Luhya MPs Urge Ruto
The impeachment proposal against Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has sparked a heated debate in western Kenya with leaders disagreeing over who should replace him if he is removed from office.
The unfolding political drama reveals deep-rooted rivalries and ambitions, as various factions jockey for position in anticipation of a possible power shift. A prominent faction within the Western Kenya parliamentary delegation, spearheaded by Khwisero MP Christopher Aseka and Matungu MP Peter Nabulindo, has initiated a robust campaign advocating for Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi to ascend to the role of Deputy President in the event of Gachagua's impeachment.
Aseka argues that Mudavadi's current position as the third-highest-ranking government official makes him the logical choice for promotion and emphasizes the importance of maintaining a stable leadership hierarchy. During a recent press briefing, Aseka stressed the need for a smooth transition, drawing parallels to the established protocol for presidential succession. Mudavadi's supporters portray him as a safe and non-threatening option. However, this proposal complicates President William Ruto's decision-making process, as the Mt Kenya region boasts several potential candidates who may vie for the deputy presidency if Gachagua is ousted.
Notable figures from this region include Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki, Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru, and Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro, each bringing unique political strengths and regional support to the table. While some leaders, such as Lurambi MP Titus Khamala assert that the Luhya people are capable of producing qualified candidates for the deputy presidency, others hold contrasting views. Kakamega Deputy Governor Ayub Savula, for instance, argues that the position rightfully belongs to the Mt Kenya region, citing historical precedent and regional entitlement. The Deputy Governor has emphasized that the Luhya community is largely content with its current representation in government.
He points to the positions held by Musalia Mudavadi as Prime Cabinet Secretary and Moses Wetang'ula as National Assembly Speaker, along with Cabinet roles occupied by Wycliffe Oparanya and Susan Mulongo, as evidence of significant Luhya influence in the current administration. Rather than seeking the deputy presidency, Savula indicates that Luhya political strategists are focusing their efforts on consolidating support behind a single Luhya candidate for the 2032 presidential election.