Kenya's Senate is conducting impeachment hearings for Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua over alleged disloyalty and provocative remarks. Despite his absence due to illness, the proceedings continue. Political analysts suggest the process is politically motivated and could lead to public backlash against President Ruto.

The National Assembly voted to impeach DP Gachagua last Tuesday, on 11 charges which included corruption, undermining the government and stirring ethnic hatred. At the trial’s opening on Wednesday, Mr Gachagua stood in the Senate chamber as each charge was read aloud, to which he pleaded not guilty.