CJ Koome to form bench to hear Gachagua impeachment case
National
By
Sharon Wanga and Nancy Gitonga
| Oct 11, 2024
The High Court has referred five cases challenging the impeachment of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua to Chief Justice Martha Koome, directing her to appoint a three-judge bench to hear the matter.
In a ruling on Friday, Justice Lawrence Mugambi noted the constitutional significance of the case, warranting a multi-judge bench.
“Despite the respondents' opposition, I believe these cases raise substantial constitutional questions under Article 163. Therefore, I am persuaded to refer them to the Chief Justice for the formation of a bench,” Mugambi ruled.
Justice Mugambi also underscored the court's commitment to addressing the case, noting, “Courts are not here for the intellectual satisfaction of the elite but to serve the public in matters of great concern. This is one of those rare occasions where the court must rise to the challenge and use all available resources.”
READ MORE
Tuju's luxury hotel auctioned for Sh450 million amid legal battle
Chameleons, tortoises top Kenya's exotic wildlife trade
Good governance is hinged on quality standards, Kebs says
Firms should use technology to help world achieve SDG targets
More deductions as KRA plans to tax paybill, till numbers
Done deal: More queries as Sh95b power deal with Adani is signed
Sh77b of forex reserves tied up amid ballooning commitments
New Madaraka Express coach elevates Kenya's rail transport
Oparanya urges Saccos to support community development
Persistent financial, policy and innovation challenges threaten Africa's Agri-SME sector
The ruling comes a day after Deputy President Gachagua's legal team, led by Senior Counsel Paul Muite, expressed concerns about the constitutional implications of the case.
Muite pointed out that this is the first time the court is handling the impeachment of a deputy president under the new Constitution.
The lawyer urged the court to refer the matter to the Supreme Court for the appointment of a three-judge bench.
“The impeachment of the Deputy President is a serious issue that requires a three-judge bench for proper adjudication,” he argued.
The Law Society of Kenya also backed Gachagua's position, stating that the case involves significant legal questions that should be addressed by a bench.
- Joho faces hard questions as MPs probe Sh1.6b fish stock assessment
- Onyonka says State plans to silence JKIA deal whistleblower
- City MPs snub Ruto as cracks emerge in UDA-ODM union
- How woman hired hitman for Sh21m to kill businessman over property row
- Support Raila on push for national dialogue, says Otuoma