Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has firmly stated that he’s not stepping down, despite growing political pressure and President William Ruto’s silence on the matter.

Speaking to his supporters in the Mt. Kenya region, Gachagua has been rallying his base after some MPs, even from his own backyard, have turned against him. The pressure is mounting, with over 280 Members of Parliament reportedly backing an impeachment motion. Kimilili MP Didmus Barasa is said to be spearheading the effort, with plans to bring the motion to Parliament next Tuesday.

President Ruto’s continued silence has raised eyebrows, with many speculating that he may be quietly supporting the move to oust his deputy. Some of Ruto’s close allies are reportedly pushing for Gachagua’s removal, which suggests the President might not be entirely opposed to the impeachment process.

However, Gachagua isn’t backing down. He reminded his supporters that he played a key role in helping the UDA win the last election, and urged President Ruto to let him complete his term before any decisions are made about his political future.

“We were elected together on the same ticket. If you don’t want me, it could destroy UDA,” Gachagua warned, before rallying the crowd with the chant, “Harambee – Usiguse Mlima,” a nod to his Mt. Kenya base.

But behind the scenes, there’s concern. Some Mt. Kenya leaders leading the impeachment effort fear a backlash from voters in the region if they are seen as betraying one of their own.

Meanwhile, despite being out of the country, President Ruto has reportedly been urged by influential business and religious leaders to step in and stop the impeachment process. They’ve warned him of the delicate nature of the situation, and the potential political fallout if Gachagua is forced out.

In short, the battle lines are drawn, and the political drama is intensifying, with Gachagua standing firm and all eyes on President Ruto’s next move.