NAIROBI, Kenya- A fresh political storm is gathering around the fate of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, as the courts begin to interrogate the legality of his dramatic impeachment in October 2024, an event that continues to ripple through Kenya’s political landscape.
At the centre of the storm is President William Ruto, whose political calculus could be significantly altered depending on the outcome of the case.
A three-judge bench led by Eric Ogola is currently hearing petitions challenging the impeachment, with Gachagua’s legal team citing procedural flaws, denial of a fair hearing, constitutional violations, and alleged political interference.
Gachagua, who was removed from office on grounds including corruption and insubordination, has publicly expressed confidence in the judicial process, stating he expects justice from the High Court.
Of his many demands, the DCP Party Leader does not want to be reinstated as the Deputy President.
The case has ignited debate not just about legality, but about political strategy and the future of Kenya’s opposition.
President Ruto has the burden of shaking the betrayal tag from the vote-rich Mt Kenya backyard, the home of Gachagua.
While he got the majority of his votes from the region, Gachagua’s impeachment has since changed the tides, and Ruto might need to even work harder to regain support- if any.
Senior Counsel Ahmednasir Abdullahi has weighed in with a provocative interpretation: if the court overturns the impeachment, Gachagua would automatically resume office as Deputy President.
In that scenario, Kithure Kindiki, who replaced him, would be compelled by law to vacate the position, Abdullahi argues.
The lawyer, a key ally of President Ruto, goes further, suggesting that such an outcome could realign the 2027 political equation, potentially reinstating Gachagua as Ruto’s running mate.
While speculative, the argument underscores the high stakes of the court’s decision.
But beyond legal outcomes lies a deeper political question: what happens to the Mt Kenya voting bloc?
Gachagua has long positioned himself as a key political kingpin in the Central and larger Mt Kenya region.
His party, DCP, currently enjoys massive support from the region.
Suna East MP Caleb Amisi has framed the moment as a turning point, arguing that Kenya is in need of a political “renaissance.”
His remarks reflect growing concern about the state of opposition politics, particularly following shifting alliances and the perceived weakening of traditional opposition structures.
With veteran opposition figure the late Raila Odinga out of the picture, questions are emerging about who will anchor dissent and provide a credible alternative ahead of 2027.
Gachagua has been positioned as a key opposition figure and has led tens of anti-government rallies across the country.
Ultimately, the High Court’s ruling will not just determine Gachagua’s political future; it could redraw alliances, test Ruto’s strategic flexibility, and redefine the balance of power within Kenya’s evolving political order.
