Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua made headlines by formally resigning from the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party. This move came seven months after his impeachment and marks a significant moment in the political landscape of Kenya. Gachagua’s resignation adhered to the legal framework governing political party affiliations, reinforcing the importance of due process in such decisions.
According to Kenyan law, any member of a political party who wishes to resign must provide a written notice to the party. This provision is part of the Political Parties Act, which ensures that party transitions are formalized and transparent. By following this procedure, Gachagua not only adhered to the legal stipulations but also signaled his decision to sever ties with President William Ruto’s party, UDA. His departure is symbolic of a broader shift in Kenya’s political environment, with growing tensions and realignments among political figures and parties.
Gachagua’s resignation comes after a turbulent period following his impeachment. In the wake of his removal, many political observers had speculated on his next steps, with some predicting that he would distance himself from the ruling party. His formal resignation now cements his position outside of UDA and confirms that his political future will likely take a different path from the one envisioned when he first joined the party.
In a statement released alongside his resignation, Gachagua expressed gratitude to UDA members and supporters. He acknowledged the party’s role in his political journey but emphasized the need to move forward, signaling his intention to explore new political opportunities.
This resignation serves as a reminder of the importance of legal procedures within the political process. Political party members are reminded of their rights and obligations under the law, with the requirement of a written notice ensuring that resignations are done in a structured and lawful manner, fostering transparency in Kenya’s political system.
