Kenya’s High Court has stirred confusion with its latest ruling, instructing the National Assembly to redo public participation for the impeachment of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. This unexpected directive has raised questions about the process and timeline of the impeachment motion.
The initial phase of public participation began on Friday October 4, 2024, in all 47 counties, as per the announcement by Speaker Moses Wetang’ula. However, a petition filed by Kirinyaga Woman Representative Jane Maina on Wednesday challenged the adequacy of this engagement. Maina’s petition emphasized the national significance of the impeachment motion, insisting on more comprehensive public involvement.
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Maina argued that the process required participation at the constituency level, ensuring wider representation. The court agreed, ruling that the exercise at the county level was insufficient, thus calling for expanded public hearings at the Sub-County level.
Court’s Decision on Gachagua Impeachment Public Hearings
The court highlighted that the ongoing hearings on October 4 would be considered the first stage of the process. However, Speaker Wetang’ula was directed to organize additional hearings at the constituency level across the country. This move aims to allow all Kenyans the opportunity to voice their opinions on the special motion.
The court ruling read, “The first stage of public participation may proceed on October 4, 2024. However, the National Assembly is ordered to hold further hearings at the constituency level to ensure full participation by all citizens.“
Public Outcry Over Gachagua Impeachment Participation Process
Despite the court’s ruling, tensions have escalated in various counties. Residents in Nyeri, Murang’a, Nakuru, and Kiambu took to the streets, voicing their dissatisfaction with the current process. Many protested against the manual public participation method, demanding a more modern, digital approach to ensure broader access.
In addition to the logistical concerns, residents in Nyeri and Kiambu expressed their disapproval of the impeachment motion itself. They argued that since Gachagua was elected alongside President William Ruto, removing one would imply the need to remove both leaders.
The National Assembly now faces the challenge of expanding public participation while managing growing unrest among citizens.
