The ruling party, United Democratic Alliance (UDA), has removed former Deputy President (DP) Rigathi Gachagua from his position as deputy party leader.
The party, which is led by President William Ruto has made the decision after Gachagua was impeached by the National Assembly and the Senate.
In a statement on Monday, November 11, the UDA National Executive Committee (NEC) installed DP Kithure Kindiki the new deputy party leader effective immediately.
“UDA Party National Executive Committee (NEC) designates Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, as its Deputy Party Leader effective immediately,” the Party said.
The Party stated that the decision was based on the National Assembly’s resolution, the Senate’s vote, and the application of Articles 75(3) and 145(7) of the Kenyan Constitution, along with Article 8.2.19 of the UDA Party Constitution.
“Rigathi Gachagua is unable to perform the duties of the office of Deputy Party Leader and subsequently ceases to hold office as Deputy Party leader,” UDA said.
Kindiki Takeover Speech
Speaking during the NEC meeting, Kindiki thanked the UDA party for appointing him as deputy and promised to work with other organs of the party.
“I want to thank UDA for the swift changes made to ensure the operations within the party go on without any gaps within the top leadership, Kindiki said.
Kindiki added that “I take this opportunity with humility and promise to work with every organ within our party, firstly as a member. I will continue to be a faithful member of the UDA party.”
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UDA Hint at Replacing Gachagua
UDA Chairperson Cecily Mbarire had already revealed plans to replace Gachagua with Kindiki.
She cited the UDA party constitution which states that the deputy president should be the deputy party leader.
“The UDA constitution states that the President will be the party leader, and the Deputy President will be the deputy party leader. We will be holding a NEC meeting probably as early as Monday, November 4, 2024, to bring him in,” she said.
UDA Secretary General Hassan Omar said plans were already underway to remove Gachagua from the party within one week.
“Gachagua must now accept the ground has shifted and move on,” Omar said.
Also Read: UDA Moves to Clip Gachagua’s Wings Completely
Establishment
UDA was originally established as the Party of Development and Reform was officially formed in January 2021.
It later changed its name in line with the Political Parties Act.
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