Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua is facing what many observers have described as a defining political moment as a three-judge High Court bench prepares to deliver its judgment on the legality of his October 2024 impeachment.
The ruling, expected at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, June 8, will be issued by Justices Eric Ogolla, Anthony Mrima, and Frida Mugambi.
At the center of the case is Gachagua's challenge to the impeachment process that removed him from office. Through his legal team, the current leader of the Democracy for the Citizens Party argues that the process was politically motivated, violated his constitutional rights, and failed to provide adequate public participation. He further contends that he was denied a fair hearing during the proceedings.
On the other hand, Parliament and the Senate have defended the impeachment, insisting that all constitutional and legal requirements were met. They argue that lawmakers followed due process, conducted sufficient public participation, and lawfully exercised their oversight mandate in removing him from office.
The judgment is expected to have significant political and constitutional implications. If the court finds the impeachment unconstitutional, it could reshape the interpretation of impeachment procedures and due process in Kenya. If the court upholds the process, it would reinforce Parliament's and the Senate's authority in holding senior state officers accountable through impeachment.
Source Attributed: Nation Newspaper