On Saturday, additional security personnel were assigned to constituency offices to oversee the public participation exercise related to Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s impeachment motion. This decision followed reports of disruptions caused by troublemakers in certain areas on Friday.
The increased security came in response to a court order from Kerugoya mandating that the exercise be held at the constituency level. Officials indicated that police headquarters had directed regional and county commanders to ensure adequate personnel deployment for the event.
“There were instances of disorder, and we are aware of those responsible,” a senior police officer stated, adding that action will be taken soon.
Areas considered potentially volatile received heightened security measures and anti-riot equipment. An official advised, “Stay away if you’re not prepared to behave civilly; let those who are willing participate.”
Anti-riot units from the General Service Unit and Rapid Deployment Unit were dispatched to these troubled locations, while a few staff members from MPs’ offices assisted the police in ensuring the exercise ran smoothly.
The National Assembly extended the public participation period for the Gachagua impeachment motion to Saturday, October 5, allowing more time for Kenyans to express their opinions on the matter. Clerk of the National Assembly, Samuel Njoroge, stated that the extension was in compliance with a High Court order, providing adequate time for citizens to share their views across all 290 constituencies.
Njoroge noted that the public would be welcome at every Constituency and County Woman Representative’s office from 8 AM to 5 PM to engage in the exercise.
“The High Court in Kerugoya recognized the public hearings held on October 4, 2024, and ordered the National Assembly to facilitate similar hearings at the constituency level, enabling constituents to actively participate and voice their opinions,” the notice read.
The public was informed that the 290 Constituency Offices and 47 County Women Representative Offices would be open on Saturday, October 5, from 8 AM to 5 PM to further support public participation in the special motion.
The High Court had ruled on Thursday that Parliament must conduct a second round of public participation to ensure all Kenyans have the opportunity to contribute to the process. Justice Richard Mwongo of the Kerugoya Law Courts emphasized that this stage should genuinely reflect the views of all citizens, rather than being a mere formality.
There are currently at least 11 ongoing court cases challenging the impeachment. Gachagua faces charges of abuse of office and legal violations, which threaten his political future.
Members of Parliament are set to vote on the motion introduced by Kibwezi MP Mwengi Mutuse on Tuesday, October 8. The MP has outlined ten charges aimed at removing the Deputy President from office, highlighting the tensions within the Kenya Kwanza administration after two years in power.
