The Kenyan High Court has temporarily suspended the impeachment of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, just hours after the Senate voted to remove him from office. The court’s ruling, issued today, October 18, 2024, has halted any appointments to replace Gachagua until at least October 24, as it reviews the legal challenges he has raised against the impeachment process.
Background of the Impeachment
Gachagua’s impeachment marks a historic moment in Kenyan politics, being the first instance of a deputy president being removed from office under the country’s 2010 constitution. The Senate voted to impeach him on October 17, finding him guilty of five out of eleven charges, including corruption, inciting ethnic hatred, and undermining governmental authority. The National Assembly had previously voted overwhelmingly in favour of his impeachment, setting the stage for the Senate’s decisive action.
The allegations against Gachagua included serious accusations such as engaging in ethnically divisive politics and intimidating judges. His defence team argued that these claims were politically motivated and lacked substantial evidence. Gachagua himself described the impeachment process as “political lynching.”
Court Ruling and Implications
Justice Chacha Mwita of the High Court certified Gachagua’s application as urgent and issued a conservatory order suspending the Senate’s resolution to uphold the impeachment charges. This ruling comes at a critical time, as President William Ruto had swiftly nominated Kithure Kindiki as Gachagua’s successor, a move that is now on hold due to the court’s intervention.
The High Court’s decision raises questions about the legality and fairness of the impeachment process. Legal experts suggest that this development could set a precedent for how future impeachment cases are handled in Kenya, particularly regarding the rights of those accused.
Political Reactions
The political climate surrounding Gachagua’s impeachment is charged with tension. Supporters of Gachagua have decried the process as a “witch hunt,” arguing that it reflects deeper political rivalries within the ruling coalition. Critics of Gachagua have welcomed his removal, viewing it as a necessary step toward accountability in government.
Political analysts warn that this situation could further strain relations between Gachagua and President Ruto, who have experienced increasing friction over governance issues. The fallout from this impeachment may also impact Ruto’s political capital and his ability to govern effectively moving forward.
Public Sentiment
Public reaction to Gachagua’s impeachment has been mixed. While some citizens express relief at his removal, believing it may lead to better governance, others fear that this political manoeuvring could distract from pressing national issues such as economic instability and rising living costs.
As Kenyans await further developments in this unfolding saga, many are keenly aware of the broader implications for governance and political accountability in the country. The High Court’s decision to halt Gachagua’s replacement underscores the importance of due process in political proceedings and highlights the complexities involved in navigating Kenya’s turbulent political landscape.
By Joseph Johnston,
Youth Editor,
Egogonews Hub
