Nairobi, Oct. 11, 2024 (TheGavel) – Kenya’s High Court has ruled that the case challenging the impeachment of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua be referred to Chief Justice Martha Koome. The court’s decision comes after Kenya’s parliament voted to impeach Gachagua on 11 charges, including allegations of self-enrichment and incitement of ethnic hatred.

Justice Lawrence Mugambi, citing high public interest in the case, directed that a panel of three judges be appointed by the Chief Justice to examine Gachagua’s petition.

Gachagua, who has denied all charges, described the impeachment motion as a “choreographed political lynching.” He is expected to face further scrutiny when the Senate debates and votes on whether to dismiss him in their next sitting.

The rift between Gachagua and President William Ruto, whom he supported during the 2022 elections, intensified after protests erupted earlier this year over proposed tax hikes and the rising cost of living. Gachagua’s controversial remarks, likening the government to a company and implying that supporters of the ruling coalition deserved preferential treatment, were among the reasons cited in the impeachment motion.

While the impeachment proceedings have stirred division in Kenya, with some calling for Gachagua’s removal and others urging parliament to focus on economic issues, President Ruto has yet to publicly comment on the matter.

The case remains closely watched as it continues to unfold under the court’s direction. (NAN)

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