Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has voiced strong confidence in reclaiming justice regarding his controversial removal from office.
His remarks come in the wake of a significant ruling by the Court of Appeal, which overturned a prior decision by Deputy Chief Justice Philomena Mwilu on October 18, 2024. That decision had permitted the formation of a three-judge bench to hear a petition challenging his ouster.
In its recent ruling, the appellate court emphasized that only the Chief Justice has the constitutional authority to empanel a bench to preside over such high-profile cases. The matter has now been officially referred back to the Chief Justice for appropriate action.
Addressing congregants at a church service in Juja, Kiambu County, Gachagua expressed hope in Kenya’s judicial system, asserting it would ultimately deliver justice.
“The Constitution of Kenya, 2010, provides four layers of judicial redress—the Magistrate's Court, the High Court, the Court of Appeal, and the Supreme Court. If you don’t find justice at one level, the next level exists to ensure it is served,” Gachagua stated.
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He added that the judiciary comprises principled judges committed to upholding justice, not just for him but for all Kenyans.
In a bold political move, Gachagua revealed plans to unveil a new political party that he believes will be instrumental in unseating President William Ruto in the 2027 General Election. He disclosed that the new party is being formed in collaboration with high-profile political figures, including former Cabinet Secretaries Fred Matiang’i, Eugene Wamalwa, and prominent leaders Kalonzo Musyoka and Martha Karua.
“I can confidently say that the 2027 General Election is already taking shape. I’ll be there, and so will Kalonzo, Karua, Matiang’i, and Wamalwa. We will come together and settle on a single presidential candidate,” he said, urging supporters to pray for unity among opposition leaders.
Gachagua further hinted at alliances with other former government officials such as ex-Agriculture CS Mithika Linturi, former Public Service CS Justin Muturi, and veteran politician Mukhisa Kituyi.
The appellate court’s ruling raises critical questions about the legality of Gachagua’s ouster and the subsequent appointment of Kithure Kindiki as Deputy President.
With the matter now redirected to the Chief Justice, the case may set a significant precedent for how high-level political disputes are handled within Kenya’s judiciary.