Kenya Newspapers Review: Ruto Risks Impeachment After Parliament Uproar Over Corruption Claims
On Thursday, 21 August, newspapers highlighted the eagerly awaited return of former deputy president Rigathi Gachagua from the United States, with focus on the elaborate activities planned by his Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) to mark his homecoming.
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1. Daily Nation
As per the daily, popular Mugithi musician Samuel Muchoki, better known as Samidoh, has officially left the National Police Service, freeing him to pursue his music career or explore a political path.
Inspector-General of Police Douglas Kanja confirmed that his resignation, effective from 20 July, was accepted, ending months of speculation about his status.
Samidoh, who served as a police constable attached to the Administration Police, had been accused of deserting duty.
His troubles escalated after a viral video showed him chanting “wantam” with fans, a phrase coined by opponents of President William Ruto.
Police commanders viewed the incident as a breach of service rules that bar officers from political engagement, leading to his transfer to the Anti-Stock Theft Unit in Gilgil and disciplinary proceedings.
Facing a possible arrest warrant, Samidoh secured anticipatory bail from the High Court, arguing that the accusations were politically motivated and designed to punish him for his views.
He produced documents showing that he had been granted official travel clearance for a US tour between May and June this year, undermining the desertion claims.
Resignation spared him further disciplinary action, which could have ranged from fines to dismissal.
2. The Standard
The publication reports that Ruto came under sharp attack in parliament after branding MPs corrupt, sparking threats of drastic action against him, including censure and even impeachment.
In a heated session, Bumula MP Jack Wamboka announced he had tabled a censure Motion, declaring, “We are now going to exercise our teeth. We are now going to bite.”
While the paper could not independently verify the filing of the Motion, MPs insisted the president’s accusations required a formal response.
A censure Motion is a formal reprimand, carrying no direct removal powers but often paving the way for impeachment proceedings.
Under Article 145 of the Constitution, impeachment can only proceed from the National Assembly with support from two-thirds of MPs before moving to the Senate for trial. A similar supermajority is required for conviction.
Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah, a close Ruto ally, admitted parliament holds the power to impeach, though he stopped short of endorsing the idea.
Whether Parliament will act remains uncertain, given Ruto’s influence over both chambers.
3. Taifa Leo
The paper reports that security agencies are preparing for the high-profile return of former deputy president Rigathi Gachagua, with his arrival in Nairobi expected to stir both celebration and confrontation.
Allies have cast the comeback as a political rebirth, while government officials are treating it as a potential security threat.
Inspector-General of Police Douglas Kanja said Gachagua would not be accorded special treatment, stressing that his arrival would be handled like any other.
He cautioned that anyone breaking the law would be arrested, adding that the former DP could be summoned to record a statement if necessary.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen went further, describing Gachagua as a “loose cannon” whose rallies could fuel unrest, though he denied claims of plotting his arrest.
Gachagua, who has just completed a two-month trip to the US, has been under fire for alleging that the Kenyan government is linked to terrorist networks and Sudanese rebel fighters.
He vowed to present evidence to American investigators, while dismissing calls to cooperate with Kenyan authorities.
His remarks have heightened tensions, with allies of President William Ruto demanding action against him.
On the political front, Mt Kenya leaders are rallying around Gachagua as their choice for the 2027 presidential race.
Supporters within the Democracy for the Citizens Party confirmed that stopovers and rallies are planned during the procession, insisting they have notified police and expect full security.
4. The Star
The daily reports that former Chief Justice David Maraga confirmed his 2027 presidential ambitions, promising Kenyans a break from what he described as a culture of corruption, tribalism and money-driven politics.
He has positioned himself as a moral alternative to Ruto, pledging clean, accountable and ethical leadership.
In an interview, Maraga outlined a grassroots-driven campaign strategy anchored on value-based politics and institutional reform.
He dismissed claims that he is a state-sponsored project meant to undermine former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i, insisting that his record should speak for itself.
Maraga explained that his decision to run stems from a “looming national crisis,” warning that poor governance has left Kenya at risk of collapse if citizens remain passive.
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His campaign, he revealed, is being shaped through stakeholder consultations and grassroots forums, aimed at producing a people-centred manifesto.
Unlike rivals who rely heavily on tribal alliances, Maraga said he prefers an issue-based approach, though he acknowledged that coalitions would be necessary, provided they align with his vision of integrity and transparency.
He also disclosed that his campaign will leverage digital platforms for fundraising and direct voter engagement, while pushing for a merit-based government rooted in professionalism, regional balance and constitutionalism.
Directly contrasting himself with the current administration, Maraga vowed to enforce zero tolerance on corruption.
Source: TUKO.co.ke
