Gachagua's impeachment verdict: The absurd judgment pitting lawyers against Judiciary

A recent High Court judgment affirming the impeachment of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has ignited fierce debate among Kenyan legal professionals. While the court ruled that Gachagua's impeachment was valid, it also awarded him Sh50 million, citing a violation of his right to a fair hearing.

The 350-page judgment, delivered by High Court Judges Eric Ogola, Anthony Mrima, and Freda Mugambi, has drawn sharp criticism from prominent lawyers and legal experts. Figures such as former Chief Justice Willy Mutunga, Law Society of Kenya presidents Nelson Havi, Eric Theuri, and Faith Odhiambo, along with senior lawyer Ahmednasir Abdullahi and others, have voiced their dissatisfaction.

These legal minds have labeled the court's handling of the case as absurd, questioning the logic behind affirming an impeachment while simultaneously awarding damages for an unfair process. The ruling has exposed a significant rift in opinion, pitting lawyers against the judiciary and raising questions about the integrity and consistency of legal decisions in high-profile cases.