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Court confirms Gachagua's removal, imposes compensation
A Kenyan High Court panel has upheld the 2024 impeachment of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, permanently barring him from holding any public office.
The three-judge bench dismissed Gachagua's claims that the process was politically biased, but ruled that the Senate breached his rights when it continued proceedings after he fell ill.
While the impeachment itself was upheld, the court ordered the state to pay Gachagua 50 million Kenyan shillings (approximately $386,000 or £290,000) in compensation.
Legal team vows appeal after ruling
Gachagua was not present when the 350-page judgment was delivered on Monday. His lawyers immediately announced plans to challenge the decision in a higher court.
The ruling also formally confirmed the appointment of Kithure Kindiki as his successor.
Fallout with President Ruto deepens
Gachagua's removal followed a bitter split with President William Ruto, his former running mate. In 2022, the pair won the election together, with Gachagua's influence in Mount Kenya-a stronghold of the Kikuyu community-proving crucial to Ruto's victory.
Lawmakers impeached Gachagua last year, citing corruption allegations, incitement of ethnic divisions, and efforts to undermine the government. Gachagua had dismissed the charges as politically motivated and lacking evidence.
Public discontent and political tensions rise
Gachagua's ouster came amid widespread anti-government protests that saw demonstrators storm parliament and set parts of the building ablaze. Security forces responded with a crackdown that left dozens dead.
The unrest was sparked by unpopular tax increases, which the government later withdrew. However, public anger has persisted, with recent demonstrations targeting rising fuel prices.
Gachagua urges supporters to channel anger at polls
Ahead of the ruling, Gachagua called for calm among his supporters, stating he was prepared for any outcome but hoped for justice. He urged them to wait until next year's elections to "express their anger at the ballot box."
Since his removal, Gachagua has become a vocal critic of Ruto's administration, building a significant following in his Mount Kenya base.
