Busia Woman Representative and ODM Secretary General Catherine Omanyo has dismissed allegations that she was bribed to support the impeachment of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
Speaking on Citizen TV's Karata Za Siasa on July 30, Omanyo responded to claims made by fellow ODM MPs Junet Mohamed and Felix Odiwuor, who alleged that some legislators received payments to vote for Gachagua’s removal.
Omanyo emphasized her decision was motivated solely by Gachagua’s conduct while in office, particularly his divisive rhetoric. She accused him of fostering ethnic divisions and excluding communities outside the ruling coalition from development opportunities.
"No money was needed to remove Gachagua. Any patriotic Kenyan would have been convinced by his statements and actions," Omanyo said, further questioning his ability to communicate effectively by likening him to a robot.
In a candid admission, Omanyo stated that although she was not offered any bribe, she would not have rejected unsolicited financial assistance given the pressing needs of her constituents.
- She highlighted the significant financial challenges she faces in supporting residents in her constituency.
- She joked that if any funds were still pending distribution, she had yet to receive her share.
Omanyo’s remarks come amid ongoing political tensions surrounding the impeachment process and accusations of vote-buying within Parliament.
