The impeachment trial against Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, which entered its second and final day in the Senate on Thursday, October 17, saw the name of lawyer Elisha Ongoya make headlines.
Advocate Ongoya Zebedee Elisha is among a team of 14 lawyers selected by DP Gachagua to challenge his ouster. The legal team also comprises of Senior Counsel Paul Muite, Victor Swanya Ogeto, Andrew Muge, George Sakimpa, and lawyers Ndegwa Njiru, George Wandati and Faith Waigwa.
Ongoya has become a household name in Kenya, for his commanding courtroom presence, with his recent role in the Senate trial on Wednesday thrusting him further into the national spotlight.
This is particularly for his tough cross-examination of Kibwezi West Member of Parliament (MP) Mwengi Mutuse, the architect of the impeachment motion during the first day of the trial.
However, Ongoya’s legal acumen stretches far beyond this high-profile case, with a career built on defending top politicians.
A stellar education and legal background
Born on April 15, 1975, Ongoya’s journey into law began at the University of Nairobi, where he earned his law degree.
He then furthered his studies at the Galilee International Management Institute (GIMI) in Israel, where he studied Management of Higher Learning.
These experiences laid a solid foundation for his career in law and academia. His early education saw him excel at St. Paul’s Ikahlika Primary School and Musingu High School in Western Kenya.
Ongoya also holds a Master of Laws (LL.M) from UoN and is an advocate of the High Court of Kenya.
His career has been marked by exceptional legal advocacy and dedication to nurturing future legal professionals as a Senior lecturer at Kabarak University.
Ongoya’s career began with his admission as an advocate and has seen his legal skills and expertise bring him widespread recognition.
His courtroom skills are often described as sharp, meticulous, and commanding, traits that have made him a sought-after legal counsel.
Today, he continues to shape Kenya’s legal field through his work at Ongoya & Wambola Advocates, where he is a key partner handling high-profile case.
Defending politicians and tackling landmark cases
Ongoya’s legal career has been marked by defending key political figures in critical moments.
In addition to his current work representing Gachagua, Ongoya was instrumental in Meru Governor Kawira Mwangaza’s impeachment trials, where his defence ensured her political survival.
One of his most notable achievements was his pivotal role in halting the controversial Building Bridges Initiative (BBI).
Ongoya’s legal team successfully argued against the initiative in both the High Court and the Court of Appeal, where it was ruled unconstitutional.
