Simple looking 'Sherlock Holmes' and a sharp mind; Lawyer Elisha Ongoya

Elisha Ongoya representing Meru Governor Kawira Mwangaza during her Impeachment hearing in November 2023 at the Senate. [ Elvis Ogina,Standard]

Advocate Elisha Ongoya has gained public attention for his sharp questioning during Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua's impeachment hearing. 

His rigorous cross-examination of Kibwezi West MP Mwengi Mutuse in the Senate has been widely discussed, with netizens praising his brilliance. 

Ongoya, who is part of Gachagua's legal team, has strongly challenged Mutuse's impeachment motion. 

For most of Wednesday evening, Ongoya pressed Mutuse relentlessly, exposing the lawmaker’s difficulty substantiating many of the charges. At one point, Ongoya remarked, “Mr Mutuse, you told me you are a lawyer…let’s be lawyers now,” a cutting statement that could unsettle even the most confident legal professional.

Elisha Ongoya: It may be getting hotter, but look at the document, compose yourself, and read. What is the total number of shares in Vipingo Beach Company?

Mwengi Mutuse: 10,000.

Elisha Ongoya: Who is indicated as owning all those 10,000 shares?

Mwengi Mutuse: The late James… pic.twitter.com/Qwgb9dcmUH

— KTN News (@KTNNewsKE) October 16, 2024

This man Ongoya
Recognised as a leading legal expert in Kenya, he has built a distinguished career in law. 

While his role in Gachagua's defense has brought him into the spotlight, Ongoya also represented Meru Governor Kawira Mwangaza, successfully defending her in two impeachment motions that allowed her to retain her seat.

Ongoya was also part of the legal team that played a key role in halting the Building Bridges Initiative (BBI). 

His legal journey is marked by a commitment to excellence, beginning with his studies at the Galilee International Management Institute (GIMI) in Israel, where he focused on Management of Higher Learning. 

He holds a Bachelor of Laws (LL. B) and a Master of Laws (LL.M) both from the University of Nairobi.

His early education includes St. Paul's Ikahlika Primary School and Musingu High School. After being admitted as an advocate of the High Court of Kenya, Ongoya co-founded Ongoya and Wambola Advocates, where he is now a partner. 

In addition to his legal practice, he is a senior lecturer at Kabarak University, Eldoret, and has authored numerous legal articles, contributing to the evolution of Kenyan jurisprudence.

His dedication to preparation was evident during the impeachment trial when he attributed his performance to extensive study. He highlighted the importance of preparation, stating, "To achieve anything in this life, preparation is key." 

He listed several books he had read on impeachment, including High Crimes and Misdemeanors in Presidential Impeachment, The Politics of Presidential Impeachment, and Impeachment in a Global Context: Law, Politics, and Comparative Practice.

Hailing from Mukoko village in Kakamega County, Ongoya's background and academic achievements have shaped his role as a prominent figure in the ongoing Senate hearings.