In a recent development in Kenya, the High Court has ruled against an application by the deputy president's legal team to halt the senate's debate on an impeachment motion against him. This decision comes after a parliamentary vote last week that resulted in the removal of the deputy president from office.
Justice Chacha Mwita, presiding over the case, emphasized that parliament should be allowed to carry out its constitutional duties without interference from the court. The impeachment motion against Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua was passed by a significant margin of 281-44 in parliament and has now been forwarded to the senate for further deliberation.
Gachagua is facing allegations of corruption and other irregularities, including accusations of supporting anti-government protests. Despite denying all charges leveled against him, the deputy president's fate now rests in the hands of the senate.
According to the Kenyan Constitution, if both chambers of parliament approve the impeachment motion, the removal from office is automatic. However, Gachagua retains the right to challenge this decision in court, a course of action he has indicated he will pursue.
Meanwhile, the chief justice has appointed a three-judge panel to address the six petitions filed against the impeachment process, underscoring the significance of this legal battle.
The political turmoil surrounding Gachagua's impeachment has spilled over into public forums, with supporters and opponents of the motion engaging in heated debates and clashes. President William Ruto, who has remained silent on the matter, had previously expressed his commitment not to publicly shame his deputy, drawing parallels to his strained relationship with his predecessor.
The upcoming senate hearings will require a two-thirds majority for the impeachment motion to be approved. If successful, this would mark the first instance of a sitting deputy president being impeached in Kenya, signaling a pivotal moment in the country's political landscape.
