Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua is set to learn his fate today, June 8, 2026, when a three-judge bench of the High Court delivers its judgment on petitions challenging his impeachment from office. The ruling is expected to be one of the most consequential political and constitutional decisions in Kenya in recent years.
1. Why Is the Case Important?
The court is being asked to determine whether Gachagua’s removal from office was constitutional, lawful and procedurally fair. The judgment could either uphold the impeachment or overturn it.
2. When Was Gachagua Impeached?
Gachagua was impeached in October 2024 after the National Assembly voted in support of a motion seeking his removal, which was later upheld by the Senate. He became the first Deputy President in Kenya’s history to be removed from office through impeachment.
3. What Is Gachagua Arguing?
Gachagua’s legal team argues that:
- The impeachment process violated the Constitution.
- He was denied a fair hearing.
- There were procedural irregularities.
- Public participation did not meet constitutional standards.
His lawyers presented 18 grounds challenging the impeachment process.
4. What Are Parliament and the Senate Saying?
The National Assembly and Senate have defended the impeachment, insisting that:
- The process fully complied with the Constitution.
- Gachagua was given adequate opportunity to defend himself.
- Public participation requirements were met.
They have asked the court to dismiss the petitions.
5. Who Will Deliver the Verdict?
The case is being determined by a three-judge bench comprising:
- Justice Eric Ogolla
- Justice Anthony Mrima
- Justice Frida Mugambi
The judges have been hearing consolidated petitions challenging the impeachment for months.
6. When and Where Will the Judgment Be Delivered?
The court scheduled the ruling for Monday, June 8, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at the Milimani Law Courts in Nairobi.
7. What Happens If Gachagua Wins?
If the court finds that the impeachment was unconstitutional or unlawful, it could overturn all or part of the process, potentially reshaping the legal and political consequences arising from his removal. The exact remedies would depend on the court’s findings.
8. What Happens If He Loses?
Gachagua has already indicated that he is prepared to move to the Court of Appeal if the High Court upholds the impeachment.
9. Why Is the Ruling Being Closely Watched?
The judgment is expected to set an important precedent on:
- The impeachment of top State officers.
- Parliamentary accountability.
- Due process in impeachment proceedings.
- The role of courts in reviewing impeachment decisions.
Legal experts believe the decision could influence future impeachment cases in Kenya.
10. What Has Gachagua Said Ahead of the Verdict?
Speaking ahead of the ruling, Gachagua said he respects the judicial process and is ready for any outcome. He also urged his supporters to remain peaceful regardless of the court’s decision.
