Chief Justice Martha Koome is playing a pivotal role in determining the legal fate of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, who is facing impeachment.
The High Court referred Gachagua’s case to her after ruling that it raises significant constitutional questions.
To address these complexities, Koome appointed a three-judge bench consisting of Justices Eric Ogola, Antony Mrima, and Dr. Frida Mugambi.
This bench will assess whether due process was followed in Gachagua’s impeachment, particularly around public participation and the time given for him to defend himself.
The case, which marks the first impeachment attempt against a deputy president in Kenya under the current constitution, is especially critical as it tests the boundaries of legal and constitutional procedures.
Gachagua’s legal team, led by Senior Counsel Paul Muite, argues that Parliament failed to provide adequate time for the public and the Deputy President to engage with the process.
They also claim that Gachagua was not given sufficient time to prepare a defense before the case was forwarded to the Senate.
The decision by Chief Justice Koome and the appointed judges will likely have a profound impact on Kenya’s political landscape, as the Senate must now deliberate on the 11 charges against Gachagua.
As the court proceedings continue, the nation watches closely to see whether Gachagua’s impeachment will be upheld or dismissed.
