Protests Erupt in Embu Over Court Decision on Gachagua Impeachment

By BRIAN MUSYOKA 

The demonstrators, led by local political figure James Ireri Soja marched through sections of the town carrying placards and chanting slogans in support of Gachagua. They criticized the court's judgment, describing it as unfair and maintaining that the former Deputy President was denied justice during the impeachment process.

Addressing the protesters, Ireri argued that the three-judge bench contradicted itself by acknowledging that Gachagua's constitutional rights had been violated during the Senate proceedings but still allowed the impeachment to stand. According to him, the court's finding that Gachagua's right to a fair hearing had been infringed upon should have automatically rendered the impeachment process invalid.

Ireri particularly faulted the Senate for declining a request to adjourn proceedings despite Gachagua reportedly being hospitalized at the time. He said the decision denied him a reasonable opportunity to defend himself against the charges facing him.

"The denial of an adjournment infringed on his right to a fair hearing, and that alone should have been enough for the court to overturn the impeachment. Justice cannot be served when an individual is condemned without being given a fair chance to participate in proceedings affecting his political future," Ireri said.

He further criticized the National Assembly's public participation exercise, claiming it was poorly conducted and failed to adequately consider views submitted by members of the public. According to him, the process did not meet the constitutional threshold required for such a significant political decision.

Ireri also maintained that many Kenyans believed President William Ruto and Gachagua were elected on a joint ticket and therefore questioned why political responsibility appeared to have fallen solely on the former Deputy President.

He called on voters across the country to begin efforts aimed at recalling senators who supported the impeachment motion, arguing that elected leaders must be held accountable for their decisions.

Meanwhile, leaders of the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) in Embu are expected to address the press over the court ruling. The briefing will be led by Manyatta MP Gitonga Mukunji and is expected to outline the party's position on the judgment and its political implications.