The High Court has declined to issue a conservatory order halting the impeachment proceedings against Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
Justice Chacha Mwita ruled that the Senate trial could move forward as planned, rejecting requests from Gachagua’s legal team to stop the process. The two-day Senate proceedings are set to begin tomorrow.
Justice Mwita explained that while courts have the jurisdiction to intervene when human rights violations are alleged, they must exercise caution in impeachment matters. The judge emphasized that such processes are constitutionally mandated to be handled by Parliament, and the courts should respect the separation of powers. He noted that Parliament must be allowed to execute its duties without judicial interference unless there is a clear breach of rights.
This ruling comes as Gachagua faces multiple charges in the National Assembly, which he has claimed are politically motivated. The Deputy President remains confident in the fairness of the judiciary, even as the impeachment trial is set to proceed. The matter has been referred to Chief Justice Martha Koome, who may form a bench to address constitutional questions raised by the impeachment process.
This decision sets the stage for a pivotal moment in Gachagua’s political career as he prepares to defend himself before the Senate.
