Tag: Gachagua News

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has publicly rejected the Ksh50 million constitutional damages awarded to him by the High Court, calling the financial settlement a mockery of justice and an insult to his fundamental freedoms.

“We Are Not Interested”

The three-judge bench consisting of Justices Eric Ogola, Anthony Mrima, and Freda Mugambi had ruled that while the Senate’s final vote to remove Gachagua met the statutory thresholds, his right to a fair hearing was explicitly violated due to procedural irregularities during the trial. To vindicate his dignity and deter future violations by Parliament, the bench ordered the Senate to pay Gachagua Ksh50 million.

However, the former Deputy President dismissed the state-backed payout, stating that a constitutional transgression cannot be bought off with a taxpayer-funded check.

“The Ksh50 million awarded to me is an insult to my fundamental rights and freedom and a mockery of the constitution,” Gachagua declared. “We are not interested. Money was never the issue here; justice and supremacy were.”

Standing on Principle Over Financial Compromise

Gachagua emphasized that accepting a monetary award while his substantive removal from office remains upheld would compromise the core motivation of his petitions. He positioned his defiance as a stand for future generations of leaders who might face targeted legislative ousters.

“I am one Kenyan leader who cannot be swayed by promises of money to allow violation of the constitution,” the former DP stated firmly. “I stand as a matter of principle to protect the constitutional rights and defend the Constitution.”

Shifting Focus to the Higher Courts

Legal analysts note that by rejecting the damages, Gachagua’s legal team is signaling an immediate intent to challenge the High Court’s split logic at the Court of Appeal.

His defense team has consistently argued that if a court formally establishes that a petitioner’s right to a fair hearing was fundamentally breached during an administrative or legislative trial, the only legally sound remedy under administrative law is to nullify the entire proceeding (void ab initio) rather than treating a constitutional violation as a compensable injury.

While the High Court hoped its hefty financial award would strike a balance between punishing legislative overreach and maintaining executive stability, Gachagua’s refusal to accept the funds has re-ignited intense debate regarding due process, judicial remedies, and the rule of law across Kenya’s political landscape.

Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua is scheduled to depart for the United Kingdom on Friday, May 15, 2026. The high-profile trip marks the beginning of an international resource-mobilization strategy aimed at financing the party’s operations ahead of the 2027 General Election.

The former Deputy President shared details of the mission during the funeral service of Ann Nyatoro Ndung’u, mother to East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) MP Kanini Kega. Gachagua explained that the UK visit is focused on building strategic networks and engaging partners willing to support the DCP’s financial requirements for the upcoming polls.

A Global Strategy for 2027

The United Kingdom visit is just the first leg of a broader international tour. Gachagua confirmed that following his return from London, he will travel to the United States to address the party’s remaining financial gaps.

During a press briefing on May 12, the DCP leader emphasized that building a robust financial base is essential for the party to emerge as a dominant force in the next electoral cycle.

“This is why I will leave for the United Kingdom on Friday night… thereafter, I will come back then go to the United States again to talk to our friends and partners,” Gachagua stated. “We must put money together for elections; we cannot afford to fail.”

Strengthening the DCP Machinery

The move signals an aggressive shift in the DCP’s preparations as it seeks to position itself as a formidable alternative in the 2027 contest. By seeking support from the diaspora and international partners, Gachagua aims to ensure the party has the necessary infrastructure and logistical capacity to compete at a national level.

The foreign tours highlight the increasing importance of the international community and the Kenyan diaspora in shaping the financial landscape of domestic politics as the race to succeed or challenge the current administration intensifies.

The Senate has mounted a robust legal defense of its role in the impeachment of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, maintaining that the proceedings were conducted in strict adherence to the Constitution, existing standing orders, and applicable laws.

Presenting their submissions before the court, lawyers representing the Senate argued that the process was a legitimate exercise of its constitutional oversight mandate. They specifically pushed back against efforts by the petitioner’s legal team to equate the Senate to a traditional tribunal, describing such comparisons as “misguided.” The defense maintained that the Senate’s function in an impeachment is a unique political and constitutional oversight role, distinct from judicial or quasi-judicial bodies.

Constitutional Mandate vs. Tribunal Standards

The court was urged to view the impeachment through the specific framework provided by the Constitution rather than through the lens of ordinary legal proceedings.

“The Senate handled the proceedings in accordance with the Constitution,” the legal team submitted, emphasizing that the special oversight mandate granted to the House must be respected. They further dismissed claims of procedural delays, arguing that there was no illegality in how the motion was procured on the 16th and 17th of the month and rejecting the notion that a six-month window was required to deliberate on the matter.

National Assembly Joins Defense

The Senate’s position mirrors arguments made by the National Assembly, whose legal representatives also defended the integrity of the process. The National Assembly’s team contended that:

• Time Sensitivity: The impeachment was a time-bound constitutional process that had to be completed within the specific windows provided by law.

• Public Participation: Robust efforts were made to involve the citizenry, including the publication of notices in both English and Swahili to ensure diverse groups of Kenyans could submit their views prior to the vote.

The submissions come as part of an ongoing judicial review of several petitions challenging Gachagua’s removal from office. The court is currently tasked with determining whether the legislative houses adhered to all procedural requirements or if the former Deputy President’s constitutional rights were violated during the high-stakes political transition.

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has moved to the Supreme Court to strike out an appeal concerning the empanelment of the High Court bench handling his impeachment petitions. In a preliminary objection filed on May 11, 2026, Gachagua’s legal team argued that the matter is now “moot” and should be dismissed.

The core of the dispute involves whether the Deputy Chief Justice (DCJ) had the constitutional authority to empanel a bench, or if that power belongs exclusively to the Chief Justice (CJ) under Article 165(4).

The Argument: A Dispute “Overtaken by Events”

Represented by Kamotho Njomo & Company, Gachagua contends that the controversy is no longer a “live” issue. He points to several key developments that have rendered the appeal unnecessary:

• Prior Ruling: On May 9, 2025, the Court of Appeal quashed the DCJ’s initial orders and directed the Chief Justice to properly empanel the bench.

• CJ’s Intervention: Chief Justice Martha Koome has since reconstituted the bench, appointing Justices Eric Ogolla, Anthony Mrima, and Freda Mugambi.

• Active Proceedings: All parties have already submitted to this new bench, filed their arguments, and participated in extensive hearings.

Gachagua argues that a Supreme Court intervention now would serve no practical purpose other than to disrupt ongoing proceedings.

“The question of bench composition is moot… any judgment by the apex court would amount to an advisory opinion on an abstract constitutional issue,” his submissions stated.

Constitutional Interpretation

While Gachagua wants the appeal thrown out on the grounds of being non-justiciable, he also offered an alternative defense of the Court of Appeal’s previous decision. He maintains that the power to assign judges is a judicial function, not merely an administrative one, and should remain strictly with the Chief Justice unless exceptional circumstances—such as the CJ’s death or resignation—occur.

Why This Matters

The outcome of this objection will determine if the Supreme Court will weigh in on the procedural technicalities of how the impeachment cases were set up. Gachagua asserts that the public interest is best served by maintaining the stability of the current bench rather than reopening a legal battle over its formation.

The case remains a central pillar of the legal fallout following attempts to remove Gachagua from office, with related petitions still active in both Nairobi and Kerugoya.

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.

READ ALSO; Weather Alert: Kenya Met Predicts Relentless Rainfall Amidst Surging Temperatures

“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.

Rigathi Gachagua, the leader of the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP), has announced a fresh legal offensive to challenge his 2024 removal from the Office of the Deputy President. Speaking in Bamburi, Mombasa County, on Sunday, Gachagua maintained that his impeachment was a “fraudulent and illegal” process that violated the Constitution. Despite his family’s reservations due to the public humiliation he faced, Gachagua expressed unwavering confidence in the judiciary’s ability to rectify the situation.

“Watertight Case”: Gachagua’s New Petition

Gachagua revealed that his legal team has spent months building a comprehensive case to prove that his ousting lacked constitutional merit. He emphasized that his return to court is a quest for justice, not just for himself, but for his supporters.

“I told my children about it and they opposed it, saying I faced humiliation. They were traumatized that a man we had helped to be President was embarrassing us… But we have faith that three judges will do what is right and apply the law.” — Rigathi Gachagua

Allegations of Bribery and Impunity

The DCP leader received vocal support from Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka, who accompanied him to the coast. Musyoka made explosive claims regarding the conduct of the National Assembly and the Senate during the impeachment proceedings. He alleged that some lawmakers were offered between Ksh 10 million and Ksh 20 million to vote in favor of the impeachment. Furthermore, the Wiper leader asserted that these “illegalities” would be exposed during the court sessions, claiming some legislators have already confessed to receiving bribes.

A Look Back: The Constitutional Deadlock

The battle over Gachagua’s removal has been mired in procedural disputes since October 2024. A key point of contention remains the formation of the bench that initially heard his petition. Deputy Chief Justice Philomena Mwilu appointed Justices Eric Ogolla, Anthony Mrima, and Freda Mugambi to hear the case, but Gachagua’s legal team argued this was unconstitutional, maintaining that only the Chief Justice possesses the authority to empanel such a bench. Consequently, proceedings were previously postponed following a Court of Appeal decision, leaving Gachagua’s status in a legal gray area.

Looking Toward 2027

Rigathi Gachagua holds the historic distinction of being the first Deputy President impeached under the 2010 Constitution, serving the shortest term in that office to date. Having moved on from the Kenya Kwanza administration, Gachagua is now a central figure in a United Opposition front. This coalition has publicly vowed to challenge President William Ruto in the 2027 General Election, framing Gachagua’s legal battle as the first step in ousting the current administration from power. The petition is expected to be filed between Monday and Wednesday this week.

The Kenyan government has officially responded to explosive claims made by Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua, who accused President William Ruto’s administration of benefiting from funds stolen in a U.S.-based fraud scheme.

The allegations were leveled by Gachagua on Sunday, January 4, 2026, during a church service in Githunguri, Kiambu County. He claimed that millions of dollars meant for people with disabilities in Minnesota were diverted to Kenya to fund political campaigns and real estate projects, including a prominent mall in Eastleigh.

“Dangerous and Regressive Politics”

In a stern rebuttal issued on Monday, January 5, Trade Cabinet Secretary Lee Kinyanjui termed the allegations as “reckless and alarming.” Kinyanjui questioned Gachagua’s sudden “discovery” of these claims, pointing out that the former Deputy President was Ruto’s own running mate during the period he now questions.

The CS criticized Gachagua’s call for foreign intervention, describing it as a desperate attempt to settle domestic political scores at the expense of Kenya’s international reputation.

“How can a leader seek to throw his own country into the deep end merely to score personal revenge? This brand of politics is regressive and dangerous,” Kinyanjui stated. “It reflects raw greed and naivety in handling matters that could have potentially catastrophic consequences.”

The “Minnesota Scheme” Claims

Despite the government’s dismissal, Gachagua doubled down on his narrative, alleging that the U.S. government is already tracking the “stolen” assets. According to Gachagua. He alleged that a mall in Eastleigh was built using the proceeds of the fraud and belongs to a close business associate of the President. He claimed that a portion of the contested funds was funneled directly into President Ruto’s campaign machinery. Gachagua made a direct plea to U.S. President Donald Trump to bypass standard extradition protocols. He urged the U.S. to conduct a “Venezuela-style” operation to pick up suspects from Kenyan soil and fly them to America for prosecution.

Diplomatic Repercussions

While CS Kinyanjui noted that criminal investigations fall outside his docket, he warned that Gachagua’s rhetoric carries “serious diplomatic implications.” He cautioned that inviting foreign powers to infringe on Kenyan sovereignty for political gain is a “reckless” move that could harm the nation’s standing with international partners.

The public exchange marks a significant escalation in the fallout between the President and his former deputy, as the “Minnesota fraud” case becomes a central theme in Kenya’s intensifying 2026 political landscape.

Following his highly-anticipated return to Kenya, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s motorcade was reportedly attacked by a group of youths as it made its way from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) along the Mombasa Road. The chaotic scenes led to a confrontation between the attackers and Gachagua’s supporters, with police intervening to disperse the crowds.

According to reports from multiple media outlets, the incident occurred at the City Cabanas stage, where unidentified individuals on motorcycles allegedly began pelting the convoy with stones and other projectiles. The attack caused damage to several vehicles, including those carrying journalists, and resulted in injuries to a number of Gachagua’s supporters and other motorists caught in the crossfire.

READ ALSO; Rigathi Gachagua Returns To Kenya, Met By Large Crowds At JKIA

The violence came as a stark contrast to the earlier part of the procession, which had been largely peaceful. Hundreds of Gachagua’s supporters had gathered at JKIA to welcome him back from a four-week political tour in the United States, creating a long and enthusiastic procession from the airport.

Police responded to the chaos by firing tear gas to disperse the crowd and restore order. The attack disrupted traffic for a significant period and prompted condemnations from Gachagua’s political allies, who accused his rivals of orchestrating the violence. The incident has added another layer of political tension to Gachagua’s return, highlighting the deep divisions that characterize the country’s political landscape.

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua encountered an unexpectedly unbending audience during his recent tour of the United States, forcing him to confront tough questions about his political approach. During an engagement with Kenyans in Baltimore on July 27, Gachagua faced a nail-biting situation as young attendees rigorously grilled him on his political agenda ahead of the 2027 General Election.

Valentine Wanjiru Githae, identifying herself as a representative of the youth-led “625 Movement,” directly challenged Gachagua on what she described as his divisive rhetoric, particularly concerning the advancement of the Kikuyu community.

“If we position ourselves as Kikuyus, another tribe will also do that, and before we know it, we are back to the same problem. We cannot say that people from other tribes are not hardworking. We have that sense of entitlement as Kikuyus, and it has to stop,” Githae asserted.

She pressed Gachagua further on his “mountain narrative,” questioning its relevance to the younger generation:

“If we GenZs don’t understand the mountain narrative, how are you going to engage us and find a way to position this politics beyond the ‘Wantam’ narrative? The politics being done now is the way it was done 20 years ago and that is what is scaring us.”

In response, Gachagua maintained his stance, stating his belief that there is a “persecution and discrimination” against Kenyans from the Mt. Kenya region, necessitating swift action to protect them. He then attempted to align with the youth, asserting that Gen Zs are a formidable, “tribeless and fearless” force who “will help us deal with that nonsense.”

The former Deputy President also faced scrutiny from another young man who questioned his trustworthiness, given his previous staunch defense of the government before his impeachment. This direct challenge underscored the deep skepticism among some youth regarding his political consistency and leadership.

Kenya is currently witnessing a wave of intense online backlash following former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s tribute to the late TikTok comedian Zachariah Kariuki, popularly known as KK Mwenyewe. Instead of being met with sympathy and condolences, Gachagua’s message has triggered a storm of criticism, with many Kenyans accusing him of “performative mourning” and perceived neglect of the young comedian during his lifetime.

Gachagua posted the tribute on X (formerly Twitter) on Monday, July 15, describing the 23-year-old content creator as “a content creator par excellence” whose unique brand of comedy had deeply resonated with Kenyans. The post included a poignant black-and-white image of KK in a suit, adjusting his jacket—a formal portrait seemingly chosen to honor the young comedian’s significant contribution to the digital space.

However, public sentiment turned sour almost immediately. Numerous Kenyans flooded the comment section, slamming Gachagua for allegedly ignoring KK Mwenyewe when he was alive and only acknowledging his talent and impact after his tragic death.

“Too Little, Too Late”: Online Reaction to Gachagua’s Condolence

The online reaction quickly coalesced around a pervasive sense of “too little, too late.” X user @BookTen set the critical tone, writing:

“You failed to recognize him when he was alive. He tried to reach out, but you ignored. Let those who stood with him mourn in peace.” Another user, @WillieOeba, directly echoed this sentiment, accusing the politician of hypocrisy: “You ignored him when he was alive. Stop these sideshows.”

Many users specifically referred to past incidents where Gachagua had allegedly shown public support for a female content creator, Ivy Chelimo (who famously coined the nickname ‘Riggy G’), over KK Mwenyewe, despite KK’s widespread popularity stemming directly from his impersonations of Gachagua himself. @kafangi wrote: “You chose that lady over him. You could have supported both.” The criticism intensified with more personal jabs and pointed questions about the sincerity of the tribute.

@GeorgeiQwatson remarked: “You ignored him at the expense of the nickname queen. Hapo aje sasa @rigathi.” @AtwoliiYa directly posed: “So now you condole… what will you do to help the family?”

A poignant philosophical take that resonated with many was offered by @Friday, highlighting the often-unseen struggles of creatives: “Being a man is hard. You’re loved most when gone.” While the overwhelming tone was critical and accusatory towards Gachagua, a few users offered a broader reflection on societal behavior and the belated recognition often afforded to male creatives during their lifetime: @fels1 posted: “88% of men receive their first flowers at their funeral.” @AlinurMohamed simply wrote: “To be a man…”—a sentiment that powerfully resonated with many about unrecognised male talents and the belated appreciation they often receive

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua on Wednesday responded to President William Ruto’s recent directives regarding protest management, which included instructing police to use force against looters and warning those attacking police installations.

President Ruto had earlier cautioned Kenyans against torching police stations and assaulting officers, asserting that the government would take all necessary measures to ensure such actions cease.

In a subsequent press conference, former Deputy President Gachagua offered advice to President Ruto on de-escalating the country’s tense political climate.

“To President Ruto, I say this with a lot of humility: please stop being angry, the people of Kenya are far more angry than you are,” Gachagua stated.

He further suggested measures for resolution:

“If you truly want this to end, then restore the dignity of the payslip. When the middle class can breathe, they will create jobs for our young people. Stop the abductions, stop the extra-judicial killings. And if you want this to end, disband the killer squad.”

Gachagua also claimed that allies of President Ruto had threatened to prevent him from traveling to the United States, where he plans to engage with Kenyans in the Diaspora and the international community regarding the “state of the nation.”

“I want to announce to the people of Kenya that tonight I will be travelling to the United States of America to talk to the Kenyans in Diaspora and the international community about the state of the nation,” Gachagua stated. “I would have wanted to stay in the country at this very difficult time when our people are under siege, but I have engagements I am not able to postpone.”

He concluded by addressing the alleged threats:

“I have been threatened by people close to William Ruto who called some of my people today that they would like to stop me from leaving the country. I have no problem, if you want to come and arrest me at the airport as you were threatening us, I have no problem. You cannot sell fear to us and even if you do, we cannot buy.

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has publicly challenged Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) boss Amin Mohammed to obtain statements from Kikuyu Member of Parliament Kimani Ichung’wah and Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen regarding their recent claims about the June 25 demonstrations.

Speaking at a burial service in Nyandarua County on Tuesday, July 1, Gachagua questioned why Ichung’wah has yet to record a statement with the police after alleging that his parents were targeted during the protests. He criticized the National Assembly Majority Leader for seemingly seeking public empathy instead of formally reporting such a serious accusation to the authorities.

“I have seen the DCI speaking, the Kikuyu MP went to Parliament and claimed that he knew those who wanted to take the lives of his parents. Has he written a statement to the police?” Gachagua queried. “Someone wants to kill your parents, and you casually talk about it in parliament instead of going to the police station to report,” he added.

Accusations Against Murkomen and DCI

Gachagua extended his challenge to the DCI boss, urging him to also obtain a written statement from Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen regarding the alleged mobilizers of the June 25 demonstrations. Taking a swipe at Murkomen, the former DP accused him of making false accusations against the Kikuyu ethnic group by linking them to the recent protests.

He similarly criticized the DCI boss for his apparent reluctance to summon both Ichung’wah and Murkomen, given their claims of knowing the names of those who mobilized and perpetrated last week’s protests.

“Murkomen said that those who looted and burnt property in Nairobi were from Murang’a, Kirinyaga, and Nyeri. Do our people have a mark on the forehead to identify them as Mt Kenya region people?” Gachagua queried. “Why haven’t you recorded a statement from Murkomen to explain how he knew that these people are from the Mt Kenya region?”

Supremacy Battle in Mt Kenya

During the church service, Gachagua also took aim at President William Ruto, accusing him of attempting to isolate him from Mt Kenya voters, similar to how he allegedly treated former President Uhuru Kenyatta. Gachagua claimed that Ruto and his allies were bitter and resorting to state-sponsored violence to undermine the opposition. He urged the government to focus on investigating the recent protests rather than concentrating on opposition politics.

Challenging the Head of State to a supremacy battle for the Mt Kenya voters, Gachagua maintained that President Ruto had lost ground in the populous region and that there was nothing he could do to reclaim it. “You think you will threaten me. You impeached me and thought I could lose ground in Mt Kenya, can you dare come to look for votes in this region? You fell for lies by Kimani Ichung’wah, now you are vulnerable,” he commented.