Kenya’s National Assembly Defends Impeachment Process Against Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua
Nairobi, Kenya — Lawyers representing Kenya’s National Assembly have firmly defended the impeachment proceedings against former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, rejecting allegations that he was denied a fair chance to present his defense. The legal team argued that the process adhered strictly to constitutional guidelines and Senate procedures, ensuring justice was served.
The case, which has drawn national attention, centers on Gachagua’s appeal challenging his impeachment in October 2024. During a court hearing on Friday, National Assembly lawyer Tom Ojienda told a three-judge bench that the former deputy president was given ample time to prepare his defense. According to Ojienda, Gachagua was informed of the charges on October 9, 2024, and had seven days before the Senate trial began on October 16 and 17 to craft his response.
“My lord, the petitioner was afforded every opportunity and was substantively heard by the Senate before the decision to impeach was made,” Ojienda stated. He emphasized that the Senate followed constitutional timelines and standing orders meticulously, leaving no room for procedural errors.
The lawyer also stressed the importance of maintaining the momentum of impeachment proceedings once they are initiated. “The Senate will not pause these hearings or adjourn them unnecessarily, as that would violate constitutional provisions and disrupt the delicate balance between fairness, accountability, and the prompt resolution of serious matters,” he argued.
Ojienda cited Articles 145 and 150 of Kenya’s Constitution, as well as Senate Standing Orders, which mandate that impeachment proceedings be conducted swiftly and efficiently. He underscored that cases involving high-ranking officials like the deputy president carry profound political and national implications, including matters of national security and public accountability. As such, these proceedings cannot be equated to ordinary court cases.
To bolster his argument, Ojienda referenced a Supreme Court ruling in the impeachment case of former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko. The apex court had warned against unnecessary delays in impeachment processes, a principle Ojienda said was upheld in Gachagua’s case. “The Senate accorded Gachagua a fair hearing before arriving at the decision to impeach him,” he maintained.
The impeachment of Rigathi Gachagua, a prominent political figure in Kenya, has sparked widespread debate across the country. Supporters of the former deputy president argue that the process was rushed and lacked transparency, while proponents of the impeachment contend it was a necessary step to uphold accountability.
As the court deliberates on Gachagua’s appeal, the case remains a litmus test for Kenya’s judicial and political institutions. Observers are keenly watching how the judiciary balances constitutional mandates with the rights of individuals implicated in impeachment proceedings.
The outcome of this case could set a precedent for future impeachment processes in Kenya, shaping the country’s approach to political accountability and governance. For now, the National Assembly’s defense stands firm, asserting that the Senate acted within the bounds of the law to ensure a fair and timely resolution.
— Reported by Nexio News
