Big Win for Rigathi Gachagua as the Court Orders the Government to Pay Him Ksh 50 Million in Damages

In a ruling that has left many Kenyans scratching their heads, the High Court has awarded former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua Ksh 50 million in damages, even as it largely upheld the impeachment that removed him from office in October 2024.

The court found that while the impeachment itself was constitutional, aspects of the process were procedurally flawed, particularly around fair hearing. The damages are to be paid by the Senate.

The award falls short of what Gachagua had originally sought. He had initially filed for reinstatement plus compensation of over Ksh 80 million, which included approximately Ksh 42 million in unpaid salary for the remainder of his term at Ksh 1.2 million per month, plus additional benefits and damages. He later amended his petition to drop the reinstatement prayer and focus on declarations of unconstitutionality and financial compensation.

Reactions have been sharply divided. Some see the Ksh 50 million as a partial victory and acknowledgment that his rights were violated during the process. Others are questioning the logic of the ruling, asking how a process can be simultaneously constitutional enough to stand yet flawed enough to warrant Ksh 50 million in damages.

Critics have also pointed to earlier allegations that some senators were offered bribes during the impeachment vote, adding another layer of controversy to an already murky process.

Gachagua's lawyers are expected to appeal the broader ruling at the Court of Appeal. For now, he leaves with Ksh 50 million, no office, and a long road ahead.

This story is still developing and we will keep you updated.