Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua is turning to the courts for justice amid mounting pressure from Parliament members. With his Senate case approaching this Thursday, Gachagua appears to have little hope of survival in that arena but remains confident that judges will see his perspective.
Despite having lost over 24 attempts to prevent MPs from pursuing his removal, he expressed his faith in the judiciary during a church service in Embu on Sunday. “We have faith in the courts… Our judiciary is very professional,” he said while celebrating the 34th Anniversary of the ACK Diocese of Embu.
“I have no doubt that our esteemed judges will protect and uphold the constitution, the rule of law, and ensure that the will of the people remains sovereign. That is how a good country operates,” he asserted.
Gachagua encouraged his supporters to trust in the legal process, emphasizing that the people’s supremacy must be honored. He also urged those targeting him to adhere to the principles he may challenge in court, asserting that this is essential for a just society.
Amid his challenges, he reassured his followers, stating, “There is a God in heaven. We are Christians and believe that God will fulfill His will… man may plan, but God prevails. Please continue to pray for us.”
Reflecting on his predicament, Gachagua questioned how an elected official can be removed by a small number of people: “President Ruto and I were elected by many. How is it just that we can be ousted by a few?”
In his first public comments since 282 MPs voted for his removal, he expressed gratitude to those who supported him. At least 40 MPs voted in favor of his ouster, leaving the Senate to handle the final decision. Some 19 lawmakers defied party directives to support him against the 11 charges leveled by Kibwezi West MP Mwengi Mutuse.
“I thank Gitonga Mukunji (Manyatta MP) for voting No. He listened to the people. Double N Pamela Njoki also changed her stance to reflect the will of the people,” Gachagua noted, emphasizing the importance of respecting public sentiment.
Acknowledging that the courts might not side with him, he called for calm regardless of the outcome. “Irrespective of the verdict, I urge peace in Mt Kenya and across the country. We only have one nation. Let us love one another and work together to improve our country,” he said.
He concluded his remarks by leading the congregation in a song about trusting God at all times. Gachagua has a 10-hour window this Thursday for the Senate to deliberate on his fate, with all 67 Senators expected to be present for the proceedings.
Kakamega lawmaker Boni Khalwale indicated that the Senate’s decision will hinge on the case and counter-arguments, stating, “We will not hesitate to remove him from office if he has committed no wrongdoing.”
