CALEB MWENDWA MUSYOKI
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua today appeared before the Milimani High Court as the hearing of petitions challenging his impeachment officially commenced. The case has drawn intense national attention, placing Kenya’s constitutional integrity and political dynamics under scrutiny.
Gachagua arrived at the court accompanied by his family, close allies, and a formidable legal team. The proceedings are being handled by a multi-judge bench, with hearings expected to stretch over several days.
Leading the defence is Senior Counsel Paul Muite, alongside prominent lawyers Elisha Ongoya and Ndegwa Njiru.
The legal team argued that: The impeachment process violated constitutional provisions , Gachagua was denied a fair hearing and The process was rushed and politically influenced
Muite told the court that the removal was conducted “at lightning speed,” raising serious concerns about adherence to due process.
Muite told the court that the removal was conducted “at lightning speed,” raising serious concerns about adherence to due process.
Gachagua was impeached in October 2024 after the Senate upheld multiple charges against him. Since then, he has consistently challenged the legality of the process, terming it unconstitutional.
In a strategic shift, Gachagua has dropped his bid for reinstatement. Instead, his legal team is now seeking: Compensation and damages , Payment of withheld salary and benefits and Constitutional declarations on the legality of the impeachment
The court session also turned into a political stage, with leaders from the United Opposition—also referred to as the United Alternative—showing up in solidarity.
The delegation was led by Wiper Patriotic Font Dr. Stephen Kalonzo Musyoka and included key opposition figures such as Eugene Wamalwa, among others. Their presence signaled growing political interest in the case and positioned the impeachment battle within the broader context of Kenya’s evolving opposition politics.
The delegation was led by Wiper Patriotic Font Dr. Stephen Kalonzo Musyoka and included key opposition figures such as Eugene Wamalwa, among others. Their presence signaled growing political interest in the case and positioned the impeachment battle within the broader context of Kenya’s evolving opposition politics.
The leaders maintained that the case is not just about Gachagua, but about protecting constitutionalism and preventing the misuse of parliamentary power.
The case is expected to test: The legality and fairness of impeachment processes in Kenya , The balance of power between the Executive, Legislature, and Judiciary and The protection of constitutional rights for state officers
As the hearings continue at Milimani, all eyes remain on the judiciary. The outcome will not only determine Gachagua’s legal fate but could also redefine how impeachment is conducted in Kenya going forward.
