The High Court has suspended the Senate’s resolution to uphold the impeachment motion against former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, initially held on Thursday, October 17.
Delivering the ruling on Friday, Justice Chacha Mwita emphasized that Gachagua’s petition raised critical issues of law and public interest.
The court issued a conservatory order preventing the implementation of impeachment charges, including the appointment of Gachagua’s successor, until the matter is set to be mentioned again on October 24, 2024. This decision underscores the gravity of the constitutional questions at hand and the potential implications for the governance of Kenya.
In his ruling, Justice Mwita directed the Chief Justice to appoint a specialized bench to hear the petition, citing the significance of the issues involved.
“Given the substantial questions of law and public interest, I certify this matter as fit to be heard by a bench of an uneven number of judges,” he stated.
This suspension comes amid heightened political tension surrounding Gachagua’s impeachment proceedings, which have underscored divisions within the Kenyan political landscape.
The ruling has sparked varying reactions, with supporters of Gachagua applauding the decision while critics question the validity of the impeachment process. Further developments are anticipated leading up to the October hearing.
