Gachagua Demands Over Ksh 80M In Benefits Following Ouster

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has moved to court to demand a staggering financial settlement exceeding Ksh 80 million, marking a fresh escalation in his legal battle against the 2024 impeachment. As the substantive hearing of his petition opened at the Milimani High Court, Gachagua’s legal team made it clear that they are seeking full restitution for what they term a “fraudulent” removal from office.

The demand includes backdated salaries, gratuity, and a host of retirement benefits that Gachagua argues he is entitled to, maintaining that his term was cut short through an unconstitutional and politically motivated process.

Breaking Down the Ksh 80 Million Claim

Gachagua’s legal team, led by Senior Counsel Paul Muite, argued that because the impeachment was fundamentally flawed, the former Deputy President should be treated as though he served his full term or, at the very least, be compensated for the loss of office.

The financial package being pursued reportedly covers several key areas. It includes the accumulated monthly salary and generous allowances he would have received from the time of his ouster in October 2024 through the end of the current term. Additionally, it seeks the multi-million shilling gratuity payment typically awarded to a departing Deputy President, along with lifetime benefits such as security, medical insurance, fuel allowances, and personal staff—perks that were summarily withdrawn following the Senate’s vote to remove him.

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“Justice Is Not Just About the Seat”

During the proceedings before a three-judge bench comprising Justices Eric Ogola, Anthony Mrima, and Freda Mugambi, the defense emphasized that the case is about the restoration of dignity and the rule of law.

Gachagua maintains that the 2024 trial was a “travesty of justice” because it proceeded while he was hospitalized and unable to defend himself. By demanding the Ksh 80 million-plus settlement, Gachagua is effectively asking the judiciary to invalidate the financial penalties of his impeachment, even as he continues to lead the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) from the political cold.

The Government’s Counter-Stance

The State, represented by the Attorney General’s office, has previously moved to dismiss such claims, arguing that Gachagua was legally removed and that his entitlements ceased the moment the Senate upheld the charges against him. The government maintains that the appointment and swearing-in of Kithure Kindiki as his successor effectively closed the chapter on Gachagua’s tenure.

High Stakes for 2027

Beyond the money, the outcome of this case holds massive political weight. If the court finds the impeachment was illegal and awards the damages, it could potentially clear Gachagua’s path to run for office in the 2027 General Election.

As the hearing continues, the public remains divided on whether the former “Riggy G” is entitled to a golden parachute or if the demand is an attempt to stay relevant in a fast-evolving political landscape. For now, the High Court must decide if a deputy president removed by Parliament can still walk away with a multi-million shilling fortune.