Security enhanced in Parliament as DP Gachagua's Impeachment Motion takes centre stage

Police have enhanced security measures in and around Parliament ahead of a significant moment in Kenyan politics, the impeachment motion against Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.

The decision to boost personnel on patrol and deploy anti-riot gear on Tuesday was intended to counter potential disruptions by individuals seeking to disturb the peace.

Several water cannons were strategically positioned, including locations outside State House, Parliament, and along Harambee Avenue, as part of the measures to address these concerns.

With the National Assembly engaging in the crucial debate, officials have meticulously organised the setting both inside and outside the building.

An armoured police vehicle stationed outside Parliament Buildings ahead of the Special Motion on Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua's removal from office by impeachment on October 8, 2024. (Photo: Barack Oduor/EV)

Parliament Road has been cordoned off by officers, reflecting the heightened security observed last Tuesday when the motion was initially presented with police officers seen inspecting vehicles seeking to access the roads.

Pedestrians were turned away, except staff of Parliament who still had to undergo a security check.

Police vehicles were seen parked at the entrances of the Parliament while plain-clothed police officers kept patrolling around major roads leading to Parliament.

Police have increased security around Parliament ahead of the impeachment motion against Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. Officers have also cordoned off Parliament Road, similar to the heightened security seen last Tuesday when the motion was first presented. pic.twitter.com/RgA6y4Igj4

— The Eastleigh Voice (@Eastleighvoice) October 8, 2024

In the Central Business District, police officers rode on horseback while others still had their lorries parked in junctions linking one street to another.

Inside the Parliament Buildings, special arrangements have been made for the deputy president.

The DP has been assigned two rooms within the complex: one outfitted with advanced security for private calls and another designated as a consultation space for his legal team.

Gachagua is expected to arrive early, as the debate commences at 9 am.

Heavy security outside Parliament Buildings ahead of the Special Motion on Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua's removal from office by impeachment on October 8, 2024. (Photo: Barack Oduor/EV))

There will be a notable departure from tradition in terms of the seating arrangement for the second in command during the session.

Instead of the usual spot near the entrance, he will be seated close to the Speaker’s podium, where he is scheduled to address Members of Parliament.

Heavy security outside Parliament Buildings ahead of the Special Motion on Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua's removal from office by impeachment on October 8, 2024. (Photo: Barack Oduor/EV)

This podium is significant as it is where President William Ruto typically delivers the State of the Nation Address and where Treasury Cabinet Secretaries present the national budget.

Four seats have been reserved next to Gachagua’s podium for his legal team, with additional seating for his lawyers arranged near the area usually designated for ambassadors.

If any family members attend, special seating has also been set aside in the section for Speakers’ Guests.

Kibwezi West Member of Parliament Mwengi Mutuse moves his impeachment motion against Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua at the National Assembly on October 8, 2024. (Photo: National Assembly)

His staff from the Office of the Deputy President will be seated nearby to provide support throughout the day.

While the session is slated to start at 9 am Gachagua’s crucial moment will occur later, as he is expected to take the floor between 5 pm and 7 pm.