KENYA’S High Court has cleared the way for Kithure Kindiki to be sworn in as deputy president, dismissing an order that had delayed his appointment following the recent impeachment of his predecessor, Rigathi Gachagua. This ruling follows weeks of intense political drama that has held the nation’s attention.
Rigathi Gachagua, Kenya’s now-impeached deputy president, was removed from office by parliament two weeks ago, with lawmakers overwhelmingly supporting an impeachment motion. Soon after the vote, President William Ruto appointed Kindiki, the current interior minister, as the replacement. However, Gachagua, widely known as ‘Riggy G,’ challenged his removal, arguing it was politically motivated and initiated legal proceedings to halt Kindiki’s installation.
Parliament had approved Kindiki’s appointment, but the court temporarily delayed his swearing-in while considering Gachagua’s legal objections. On Thursday, a three-judge panel lifted this injunction, citing the need for stability and continuity in Kenya’s second-highest office. The judges deemed the prolonged vacancy ‘untenable’ given the demands of the role.
Gachagua’s legal team has indicated plans to appeal, aiming to challenge the impeachment ruling directly. Although the court approved Kindiki’s swearing-in, it permitted the ongoing case regarding Gachagua’s impeachment to proceed. Gachagua’s lawyers argue that he was denied a fair hearing, stating that the charges, including accusations of inciting ethnic tensions and breaching his oath of office, were unsubstantiated. His removal took place while he was in hospital, adding to his claims of unfair treatment.
Kithure Kindiki, a 52-year-old former law professor, is now positioned to become Kenya’s deputy president. His appointment comes from the Mount Kenya region, a stronghold for President Ruto in the 2022 election. Gachagua, also from the Mount Kenya region, was the first Kenyan deputy president impeached under the country’s 2010 constitution.
The impeachment follows months of division between Gachagua and Ruto, which heightened after June protests over tax hikes sparked internal dissent within the ruling party. The court’s decision now sets the stage for Kindiki to assume the role amid Kenya’s politically charged climate.
