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Gachagua Allies Axed from Powerful Senate Committees in Major Political Shake-Up
Several senators allied with DP Rigathi Gachagua have been removed from key Senate committees amid a growing political rift with President William Ruto. Among them are Murang’a Senator Joe Nyutu, Kiambu’s Karungo Thangwa, and Kirinyaga’s James Murango, who all lost influential positions. Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah was also ousted from the Public Accounts Committee after declaring his 2027 presidential bid.
Several senators allied with Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua have been removed from key Senate committees in what appears to be a political purge. This comes amid a widening rift between Gachagua and President William Ruto following the DP’s impeachment. The affected senators held influential positions in committees that played a crucial role in shaping government policies.
Among those de-whipped are Murang’a Senator Joe Nyutu, Kiambu Senator Karungo Thangwa, and Kirinyaga Senator James Murango. Nyutu, who chaired the Education Committee, and Thangwa, who led the Roads and Transport Committee, have both lost their positions. Murango, who was chairing the Agriculture Committee, has also been removed in the shake-up.
Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah has also been ousted from the Senate Public Accounts Committee. His removal comes shortly after he publicly declared his intention to run for the presidency in 2027, vowing to challenge President Ruto. Given the committee’s influential role in overseeing government spending, his exit has raised political concerns.
The changes signal a broader realignment in the Senate as President Ruto consolidates his influence. The removal of Gachagua’s allies and other outspoken leaders suggests an effort to tighten control over key legislative functions ahead of the 2027 elections.
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