The recent court ruling halting the replacement of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has sparked a renewed conversation about the integrity of the impeachment process in Kenya.
The High Court, under Justice Chacha Mwita, issued conservatory orders suspending the Senate’s decision to impeach Gachagua until a hearing slated for October 24, a move that has been hailed by some as a crucial victory for justice.
Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, in a statement shared via his social media platforms, applauded the court’s intervention, describing it as a beacon of hope for citizens disillusioned by political power plays.
He stressed the importance of judicial oversight, particularly when legislative processes are perceived to be politically motivated. “When a legislature fails to reflect the will of the people, the judiciary becomes the last safeguard of justice,” Kalonzo stated, emphasizing the significance of the court order that temporarily blocks Gachagua’s removal and prevents the appointment of his successor, Prof Kithure Kindiki.
The contentious impeachment has raised questions regarding the security arrangements for Gachagua, whose personal protection was withdrawn after the Senate’s decision.
Kalonzo expressed concern over this development, urging the government to reinstate Gachagua’s security detail, citing the legal uncertainty surrounding the impeachment. He remarked, “With the court’s decision, we expect Deputy President Gachagua’s security to be restored, given that the matter is far from resolved.”
Gachagua’s security detail, including elite officers from the General Service Unit’s Recce squad, had been deployed to guard his residence and other properties prior to his impeachment.
However, following the decision to impeach him, his security was promptly scaled down. This reduction has been seen as part of a broader political maneuvering in the wake of the Senate’s vote to remove him.
By Nairobi