The Farmers Party, led by former Kiambu Governor, Ferdinand Waititu, has announced plans to hold a peaceful protest on Tuesday aimed at “re-installing” Rigathi Gachagua as Kenya’s Deputy President. The demonstration is set to proceed to the official Deputy President’s residence in Nairobi’s Karen area.
This move follows the Court of Appeal’s decision to nullify an October 2024 ruling by Deputy Chief Justice, Philomena Mwilu, which constituted a three-judge bench to hear a petition challenging Gachagua’s impeachment. The appellate court ruled that only the Chief Justice has the legal authority to make such judicial appointments, casting doubt on the legality of Gachagua’s removal and the appointment of his successor, former Interior Cabinet Secretary, Kithure Kindiki.
Gachagua was impeached by the Senate on October 18, 2024, after a political fallout with President William Ruto. He has since expressed confidence in the judiciary, stating during a church service in Juja that justice will prevail both for himself and the Kenyan people.
In a letter to Inspector General of Police, Douglas Kanja, the Farmers Party requested security for the planned protest, emphasizing their commitment to a peaceful procession. “We aim to uphold the rule of law and protect the sovereign will of the people who elected Gachagua as Deputy President in 2022,” the party stated.
The protest marks a new chapter for the Farmers Party, which exited the Kenya Kwanza alliance in April citing political betrayal and constitutional violations. Waititu, who leads the party, was impeached in 2020 over corruption charges and is currently barred from holding public office.
The unfolding political saga adds pressure to the Ruto administration amid growing dissent and legal challenges surrounding the deputy presidency.
Written by Rodney Mbua
