Kenya: Hearing of Case Challenging Gachagua's Impeachment Postponed

Nairobi — The hearing for Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua's impeachment case has been postponed. This delay is pending further directions from Chief Justice Martha Koome. She is expected to form a new bench for the case.

The matter was set for mention on Thursday but has now been adjourned. A three-judge bench led by Justice Erick Ogolla was previously handling the case.

Hon. Beja Nduke, the Assistant Deputy Registrar, issued a notice about the adjournment. It stated that following a Court of Appeal judgment, the case will wait for guidance from the Chief Justice.

Parties involved will receive further directions soon. More updates are anticipated as the Chief Justice provides formal guidance on next steps.

Last week, the Court of Appeal overturned a decision made by Deputy Chief Justice Philomena Mwilu. This decision, made on October 18, 2024, had formed a three-judge bench to hear Gachagua's removal petition.

The appellate court ruled that only the Chief Justice can appoint such benches. Deputy Chief Justice Mwilu had appointed Justices Eric Ogolla, Anthony Mrima, and Freda Mugambi to hear the case. Gachagua's legal team argued this appointment was unconstitutional.