Kenya’s Constitutional Crisis Deepens: Impeached Deputy President Takes Battle to Court
A high-stakes battle has unfolded in Kenya as the impeached Deputy President, Rigathi Gachagua, takes on the President, Parliament, and the judiciary in a fight for his position. The country’s 2010 Constitution is at the center of the maelstrom, with debates surrounding its interpretation reaching a fever pitch.
At the heart of the crisis is the Senate’s vote to remove Gachagua from office, citing allegations that his lawyers claim are unfounded and lacking in evidence. The high court has issued a conservatory order, temporarily halting the move to replace Gachagua until October 24. This development came on the eve of the swearing-in ceremony of would-be Deputy President, Kithure Kindiki, a former interior minister who served under President Ruto.
Parliament, dominated by the ruling alliance, has petitioned the High Court to lift the orders blocking Kindiki from assuming the Deputy President’s office, but the court has declined. In a surprise move, a bench of three judges convened on Saturday, October 19, to rule on Gachagua’s fate. The impeached Deputy President’s lawyer has called for an investigation into the procedure of empaneling the bench, further complicating the matter.
Gachagua’s impeachment is a first in Kenya’s history, and the country’s politicians and citizens alike are watching with bated breath as the drama unfolds. The case has sparked heated debates surrounding the interpretation of the 2010 Constitution, which has been a point of contention in recent times.
Kindiki, who has been nominated to replace Gachagua, has a contentious past. He has been accused of playing a role in the violent crackdown on protesters during the historic June-July anti-tax protests. Despite this, he survived a cabinet reshuffle that followed the dropping of certain portions of the contentious bill.
As the battle for Gachagua’s position reaches its climax, Kenya’s judiciary is under intense scrutiny. The case has far-reaching implications for the country’s democracy and the rule of law. With the world watching, the outcome will have significant consequences for the nation’s future.
