Mathira MP dismisses impeachment letter against DP Gachagua

Mathira MP Eric Wamumbi has dismissed a letter circulating on social media alleging the impeachment proceedings against Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.

The letter, dated July 8, 2024, and signed by MP Wamumbi, accuses the Deputy President of gross violations of constitutional provisions, criminal conduct, and gross misconduct.

Taking to his Facebook account on Wednesday, Wamumbi termed the letter as fake. "Attention, kindly note that the letter going around on social media is fake. I ask all leaders to focus on their work and avoid sideshows," he said.

The incident follows recent public acknowledgement by the MP of a significant rift between himself and DP Gachagua.

In a Facebook post on Sunday, Wamumbi confirmed that there is a conflict between him and the DP, noting that it is not related to the ongoing bar closures in Karatina town.

"It is true, there is a Rift between the Deputy president and I. The rift is not about the closed bars in Karatina town which have left the town dead for four months. It is about something bigger than that, he should say the truth and nothing but the truth. I will be telling the truth, and the people of Mathira will pick which side to believe in," the MP said.

He later posted on Monday saying that he met with the Karatina business community to listen to their cries after they complained that their businesses were closed illegally.

He acknowledged that he has been at the forefront of fighting illicit brews like the DP and will continue to do so. He, however, said that must be done while protecting legitimate business people.

"Their only cry is that it's only in Mathira Constituency where bars are closed while in other areas in Mt Kenya region bars are operating without harassment. They have asked the Deputy president to close all bars in Mt Kenya because they feel treated unfairly and in a discriminative manner. Speaking on behalf of my people, is not disrespecting anyone, I am very respectful," he said.

According to the letter, it noted that revelations and investigations have uncovered significant concerns regarding the conduct and responsibilities of Gachagua, specifically in gross violation of constitutional provisions and laws.

"Gachagua has allegedly violated multiple provisions of the Constitution and other relevant laws, including but not limited to the unauthorised disclosure of sensitive intelligence information which could potentially compromise national security, diplomatic relations, or ongoing investigations," reads the letter.

It also accused the DP of misappropriation of public funds for personal gain, contrary to the principles of public finance management outlined in the Constitution and contrary to chapter 6 of the Constitution.