By Bonface Mulyungi

A three-judge bench will deliver its verdict on June 8, 2026, in petitions challenging the constitutionality and legality of the removal of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua from office by the National Assembly and the Senate following an impeachment process that has since attracted multiple legal challenges.

The decision date was set after the parties in the matter concluded their submissions before the court.

During the hearing, Gachagua’s lawyers raised 18 grounds challenging the impeachment process, arguing among other issues, that he was never accorded a fair hearing and that there was inadequate public participation before his removal from office.

However, the Senate and the National Assembly urged the court to dismiss the petitions, maintaining that the impeachment process was conducted in accordance with the Constitution and relevant laws. 

They argued that Gachagua was given sufficient opportunity to defend himself before both Houses and that adequate public participation was undertaken before the proceedings were concluded.

“We will retire and prepare a judgment bringing these proceedings to a close. We hope to do that on June 8 in the ceremonial hall at 11:00 am,” Justice Eric Ogolla stated.

The ruling is expected to shape Gachagua’s political future ahead of the upcoming elections, as an upheld impeachment would bar him from contesting for public office, while a favourable ruling would clear the way for his participation in the polls.