The impeachment of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and nomination of Interior Cabinet Secretary Prof Kithure Kindiki to take up his place has set in motion what portends to be a protracted legal battle in court and in the political arena.

The development has set the stage for a showdown between the duo that is now claiming the number two position, with the repercussions of Parliament’s decision to shift political power from Mt Kenya West region to the East already being felt in the Presidency.

At least 108 staff members in the Deputy President’s office have been sent on compulsory leave, effective immediately, with fears abounding that they are sacrificial lambs in the bid by the state to accommodate Deputy President-elect Kindiki ahead of his swearing-in next week.