The National Assembly has appointed five distinguished lawmakers to lead the prosecution of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s impeachment in the Senate. This follows the Assembly’s vote, where 281 MPs voted for impeachment, while 44 opposed it. These MPs—two from ODM and one each from UDA, Ford Kenya, and Maendeleo Chap Chap—are tasked with presenting the case against Gachagua. The Senate’s hearing, scheduled for later this week, is expected to be a key moment in Kenya’s political history.
1. Kibwezi West MP Mwengi Mutuse (Mover of the Impeachment Motion)
Kibwezi West MP Mwengi Mutuse, a vocal member of the Maendeleo Chap Chap party, spearheaded the impeachment motion against Deputy President Gachagua. His leadership and legal expertise have earned him a prominent role in this historic process.
Key Facts About Mwengi Mutuse:-
Education:
– Master of Laws (LL.M), University of Nairobi (2015-2016)
– Bachelor of Laws (LL.B), University of Nairobi (2003-2014) – Bar Examination/Professional Diploma, Kenya School of Law (2016-2018)
– Makueni Boys High School (1994-1997)
– Kanyangu Primary School (1986-1993)
Professional Background:
Mutuse’s career spans both legal and public administration roles. Before entering politics, he served as Chief of Staff in the County Government of Machakos from 2013 to 2022, where he oversaw various development initiatives and public policies.
His background in public service also includes his time as Regional Coordinator at Maendeleo Resource Trust (2007-2008) and Communication Officer at the Government Spokesperson’s Office (2004-2007). His experience in both governance and legal frameworks places him in a strong position to lead the impeachment charge.
2. Tharaka MP George Murugara
George Murugara represents Tharaka Constituency under the UDA party and is one of the most experienced legal minds leading the impeachment case. His legal background and calm demeanor make him a critical figure in the bipartisan prosecution team.
Key Facts About George Murugara:-
Education:
– Diploma in Laws, Kenya School of Law (1991-1992)
– Bachelor of Laws (LL.B), University of Nairobi (1988-1991)
– Kabarak High School (1986-1987)
– Mang’u High School (1982-1985)
– Tharaka Primary (1975-1981)
Professional Background:
Murugara is an advocate of the High Court of Kenya and practiced law for over two decades as a partner at Hamilton Harrison and Mathews, one of the leading law firms in the country. His legal career has focused on civil and commercial litigation, with notable experience in constitutional law.
Since entering politics in 2017, Murugara has chaired key parliamentary committees, including the Justice and Legal Affairs Committee, further solidifying his legal credentials in handling complex cases.
Committee Memberships:
– Chair, Justice and Legal Affairs Committee (2022-present)
– Justice and Legal Committee (2017-2022)
– Delegated Legislation Committee (2017-2022)
3. Kanduyi MP John Makali
John Makali, representing Kanduyi Constituency under Ford Kenya, has built a career on integrity and legal advocacy. His selection for the prosecution team underscores his deep commitment to justice and accountability in public office.
Key Facts About John Makali:-
Education
– Post Graduate Diploma in Law, Kenya School of Law (1994-1995)
– Bachelor of Laws (LLB), University of Nairobi (1990-1994)
– St. Patrick’s High School Iten
– Bungoma Boys High School
– Musikoma Primary School
Professional Background
Makali’s legal career began as an associate at M/S Wetang’ula and Company Advocates, where he honed his skills in litigation and legal analysis. He later became a senior partner at M/S J.O. Makali and Company Advocates, a role he held for over two decades. His legal expertise extends to corporate law, human rights, and governance issues.
From 2013 to 2017, Makali also served as the Speaker of the Bungoma County Assembly, demonstrating his leadership abilities in legislative matters.
4. Rarieda MP Otiende Amollo (Senior Counsel from ODM)
Otiende Amollo, Rarieda MP and Senior Counsel, is one of Kenya’s most respected legal professionals. His involvement in the prosecution is widely seen as a strategic move, given his extensive experience in constitutional law and his deep understanding of Kenya’s legal systems.
Key Facts About Otiende Amollo:-
Education:
– Master of Laws (LL.M), University of Nairobi (2002-2004)
– Diploma in Law, Kenya School of Law (1996)
– Bachelor of Laws (LL.B), University of Nairobi (1991-1995)
– Maranda High School
Professional Background
Amollo is a Senior Counsel, a title awarded to legal professionals of the highest caliber in Kenya. He is the founding partner at Rachier & Amollo LLP, where he has litigated numerous high-profile cases, particularly in human rights, constitutional, and electoral law.
His reputation as a defender of justice grew when he served as the Chairperson of the Commission of Administrative Justice (Ombudsman) from 2011 to 2016.
Committee Memberships:-
Vice-Chair, Justice and Legal Affairs Committee (2020-present)
– Member, Public Accounts Committee (2018-2022)
5. Homa Bay Town MP Peter Kaluma
Peter Kaluma, MP for Homa Bay Town, is a seasoned lawyer and politician who brings a wealth of experience to the impeachment case. His extensive background in law and academia, along with his commitment to justice, makes him a vital member of the prosecution team.
Key Facts About Peter Kaluma:-
Education:
– Master of Laws (LL.M), University of Nairobi (2006-2008)
– Postgraduate Diploma in Legal Studies, Kenya School of Law (2000-2001)
– Bachelor of Laws (LL.B), University of Nairobi (1996-2000)
– St. Joseph’s High School, Rapogi
– Ndiru Primary School
Professional Background
Kaluma has had a diverse career, serving as an advocate, lecturer, and politician. He began his legal practice at B. M. Musau & Co. Advocates before partnering at Lumumba Mumma & Kaluma Advocates. His practice focused on constitutional law and public interest litigation.
From 2009 to 2012, he lectured at the University of Nairobi and the Kenya School of Law, shaping the minds of future legal professionals. Kaluma has been the MP for Homa Bay Town since 2013 and remains active in legislative reforms.
