Kenya’s Parliament Overwhelmingly Votes to Impeach the Country’s Deputy President

Kenya’s lawmakers approved a motion Tuesday to impeach the country’s deputy president, following daylong discussions and after Rigathi Gachagua appeared in parliament to defend himself against several charges, including allegations that he supported anti-government protests in June. The motion was approved by a 281-44 vote in favor of impeachment, well above the 117 votes constitutionally required. The motion now goes to the parliament’s upper house, which will debate the matter and also hold a vote. For impeachment to be final, it will need the additional backing of two thirds of senators in the upper house. It’s not clear when that vote will take place. Under Kenya’s constitution, the removal from office is automatic if approved by both chambers, though Gachagua can challenge the action in court — something he has said he would do. (AP)