Makueni Senator Dan Maanzo has alleged that he received a KSh10 million offer to support the impeachment of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua in October 2024.
Speaking on Citizen TV on Thursday, Maanzo said people linked to the Kenya Kwanza administration approached him before the Senate vote. He claimed they wanted him to support the motion that removed Gachagua from office.
Maanzo Says He Rejected the Offer
Maanzo claimed the offer came with threats. He said the individuals warned him of consequences if he accepted the money but failed to support the impeachment.
“I was approached on condition that I take money and vote YES. I was also told that if I took the money and voted NO, I would not get to my house. It was KSh10 million from government agents,” he said.
The senator claimed political operatives linked to the Kenya Kwanza coalition made the approach. He also said the individuals had close ties to President William Ruto.
More Bribery Claims Emerge
Maanzo’s claims followed allegations from other politicians that money influenced the impeachment vote.
Suna East MP and National Assembly Minority Leader Junet Mohammed claimed lawmakers received money before they voted on the motion.
Junet also alleged that Kericho Senator Aaron Cheruiyot managed the funds given to MPs and Senators.
Meanwhile, Lang’ata MP Felix Odiwuor, popularly known as Jalang’o, claimed politicians received different amounts of money. He said the payments depended on the individuals involved.
Gachagua Calls for Court Action
After the allegations emerged, Gachagua asked the Judiciary to examine the statements made by politicians.
The former Deputy President, who now leads the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP), said the claims support his argument that his removal was unfair.
He urged the courts to investigate the alleged admissions and deliver justice.
Court Upholds Gachagua’s Removal
The allegations emerged after the High Court rejected Gachagua’s petition challenging his impeachment.
However, the court found that the Senate process violated his right to a fair hearing. The judges awarded him KSh50 million in constitutional damages.
Gachagua rejected the award. He argued that the court should have cancelled the impeachment instead.
Judges Defend Impeachment Decision
A three-judge bench comprising Justices Eric Ogolla, Anthony Mrima and Frida Mugambi upheld Parliament’s decision to remove Gachagua.
The former Deputy President argued that Parliament rushed the process. He also said the Senate denied him a fair hearing after refusing to delay proceedings when he fell ill.
Additionally, he claimed political motives influenced the 11 impeachment charges. The charges included allegations of corruption, abuse of office and ethnic division.
His lawyers also argued that some lawmakers had already made up their minds before the hearings started.
Lawyers Raise Concerns Over Ruling
Several legal experts have questioned the High Court decision.
Former Chief Justice David Maraga said the ruling could affect future impeachment cases. He questioned why the court awarded damages after confirming that Gachagua’s rights were violated.
Lawyer Donald Kipkorir also criticised the judgment. He argued that the court should have overturned the impeachment after confirming the rights violation.
Former Law Society of Kenya President Faith Odhiambo said the ruling raises important questions. She questioned whether financial compensation can fully address violations of constitutional rights during impeachment proceedings.
