What You Need to Know
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua appeared in court to contest his impeachment, supported by allies like Kalonzo Musyoka and Eugene Wamalwa. The ongoing hearings have attracted significant political interest as Gachagua argues the impeachment process was unconstitutional and politically motivated, marking a historic moment in Kenyan politics.
Africa-Press – Kenya. Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua on Monday appeared at the Milimani High Court in Nairobi for the hearing of petitions challenging his impeachment, flanked by family members, opposition leaders, and a team of senior lawyers.
The hearing, which is ongoing, has drawn significant political interest, with several of his allies turning up in solidarity.
Among those present were Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka and DAP-K leader Eugene Wamalwa, who led a group of opposition figures and lawmakers allied to Gachagua.
Also in attendance were Nyandarua Senator John Methu, Kirinyaga Woman Representative Njeri Maina, former Nominated Senator Millicent Omanga, and Makueni Senator Dan Maanzo, among others linked to his Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP).
Gachagua arrived at the court precincts in the company of his wife, Pastor Dorcas Rigathi, and their two sons, Keith and Kevin, as the highly anticipated proceedings got underway before a three-judge bench.
His legal team is led by Senior Counsel Paul Muite and includes lawyers Elisha Ongoya and Ndegwa Njiru.
The matter is being heard by Justices Erick Ogolla, Anthony Mrima, and Freda Mugambi, who are expected to issue directions on pending applications and consider arguments on the substantive petition as the proceedings continue.
Gachagua is challenging the legality and constitutionality of the impeachment process that led to his removal from office in October 2024.
In his petition, he argues that the process was marred by procedural irregularities, violated constitutional safeguards, and denied him the right to a fair hearing.
Before entering the courtroom, Gachagua posted a message on his X account expressing confidence in the judicial process.
“Day 1 at the Milimani High Court on the hearing of the impeachment case. May justice prevail. God bless Kenya,” he wrote.
Kalonzo, who was among the first leaders to arrive at the court, framed the case as a significant constitutional moment.
“This morning, we stand shoulder to shoulder with H.E. Rigathi Gachagua, Second Deputy President of the Republic of Kenya, at the Milimani Law Courts, Nairobi,” he posted on X.
“What unfolds today is not merely a legal proceeding; it is a defining moment for our democracy. The rule of law must prevail, and the rights of every Kenyan, regardless of political affiliation, must be protected. History is watching.”
The petitions before the court also question decisions and actions taken both during and after Gachagua’s tenure, with his lawyers maintaining that some of the measures taken against him were unconstitutional.
Several parties have filed applications in the matter, including requests for conservatory orders, responses from state agencies, and submissions touching on the powers of Parliament, the role of the Senate, and the constitutional threshold required in an impeachment process.
Gachagua was ousted in October 2024, becoming the first Deputy President in Kenya’s history to be impeached.
He has consistently maintained that the process was unlawful and politically driven.
The court is expected to give further directions as the hearing progresses.
The impeachment of Rigathi Gachagua marks a significant event in Kenya’s political landscape, as he is the first Deputy President to face such a fate. The case raises critical questions about the legality of impeachment processes and the balance of power within the Kenyan government, reflecting ongoing tensions in the political arena. Gachagua’s legal challenges highlight the complexities of constitutional law in Kenya, especially regarding the rights of elected officials and the mechanisms of accountability.
