Petitioners seek referendum to impeach President Ruto and Dp Gachagua
President William Ruto and his DP Rigathi Gachgua in statehouse
Legal Challenge Against Leadership
Fourteen petitioners have filed a court case to end the terms of President William Ruto and Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua through a referendum. They argue that recent actions during anti-state protests raise doubts about their ability to lead effectively.
Allegations Against Leadership
The petitioners claim that Ruto and Gachagua mishandled the political crisis by deploying the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) against peaceful protesters. They accuse the administration of failing to uphold the constitution and of abducting some protesters.
Call for a Referendum
“The legitimacy crisis facing Kenya is severe,” the petition states. The petitioners request that a referendum be held by October 2024 to determine whether Ruto and Gachagua should continue in office. They seek to end their terms through a popular vote.
Constitutional Concerns
The petitioners argue that deploying KDF to suppress unarmed citizens is unjustifiable. They cite Article 37 of the Constitution, which guarantees the right to protest and picket. They claim this action violates constitutional rights.
Police Conduct During Protests
The petitioners accuse the police of allowing “political thugs, saboteurs, and agent provocateurs” to disrupt the Gen Z-led protests. They express concern over the police’s handling of the protests, including reports of brutality, abductions, and executions.
Foreign Policy Criticisms
The petitioners also question Ruto’s decision to accept Kenya’s designation as a non-NATO ally by the USA. They argue that this move lacks transparency and poses a risk to Kenya’s national security and non-aligned foreign policy.
Demand for Judicial Review
The petitioners request that a five-judge bench review their case. They believe the matter requires thorough examination by a high-level court to address the alleged issues with the current administration.
Public Outcry and Government Response
Protesters have called for Ruto’s resignation, citing increasing corruption and a lack of accountability. In response to mounting pressure, Ruto dismissed his entire Cabinet, announced austerity measures, and nominated a new Cabinet with some former members retaining their positions.
Changes in the Cabinet
Ruto’s new Cabinet includes familiar faces such as Prof. Kithure Kindiki (Interior), Aden Duale (Defence), Alice Wahome (Lands), and Soipan Tuya (Forestry). Notably, Tuya has been moved to Defence, and Duale to Forestry.
New Appointments
Ruto has also nominated Rebecca Miano as Attorney-General and Davis Chirchir for Roads and Transport. These nominations follow the recent Cabinet reshuffle.
Parliamentary Vetting
National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula has confirmed that all Cabinet nominees will undergo a thorough vetting process by Parliament. This step aims to ensure that the new appointments meet the required standards.
The petitioners’ move to seek a referendum against Ruto and Gachagua reflects growing discontent with the current administration. As the legal process unfolds, the public and government await further developments. For more information on the case, visit Kenya’s Judiciary and Parliament.
