Rigathi Gachagua Seeks Salary And Benefits As Impeachment Hearing Opens At Milimani High Court

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has expressed a renewed sense of optimism as the High Court in Nairobi began a decisive three-day hearing regarding his 2024 removal from office. Arriving at the Milimani Law Courts on Monday, April 27, 2026, Gachagua took to his X account to describe the day as a “significant milestone” in his quest for justice.

“Day 1 at the Milimani High Court on hearing of the impeachment case,” he shared. “May Justice prevail. God Bless Kenya.”

A Renewed Legal Strategy

This latest phase of the constitutional petition sees Gachagua’s legal team, led by Senior Counsel Paul Muite, shifting focus toward both the legality of the process and the financial entitlements of the office. Gachagua is now formally asking the court to:

• Overturn the Impeachment: Contesting the legality and outcome of the 2024 Senate decision.

• Award Full Remuneration: Seeking the payment of salaries, benefits, and entitlements he would have earned had he remained in office for the full term.

During the opening arguments, Muite criticized the “lightning speed” of the original 2024 proceedings, arguing that the rush violated constitutional safeguards and denied Gachagua a fair opportunity to defend himself.

The Bench and the Background

The case is being heard by a high-profile three-judge bench consisting of Justices Eric Ogola, Anthony Mrima, and Freda Mugambi. This is the same panel that Gachagua had previously challenged, following a January 2026 Supreme Court ruling that dismissed his bid to halt the proceedings, thereby clearing the way for this substantive hearing on merit.

The 2024 Impeachment Recap:

• October 1, 2024: MP Mwengi Mutuse tabled a motion with 11 charges, including gross constitutional violations and inciting ethnic tensions.

• October 8, 2024: The National Assembly passed the motion with an overwhelming majority (281–44).

• October 17, 2024: Following a Senate trial where Gachagua was hospitalized and unable to testify, Senators upheld five charges and voted for his removal.

Political Stakes and Future Ambitions

Since his removal, Gachagua has transitioned from the Kenya Kwanza administration to lead the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP). His physical presence in court underscores the high stakes of the battle, as the outcome will significantly impact his eligibility for the 2027 General Election.

As the court continues to hear arguments over the scheduled three-day session, all eyes remain on the judiciary to see if it will uphold the 2024 ouster or provide the former Deputy President with a landmark legal victory and financial restitution.