Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua remains constitutionally eligible to contest the presidency in 2027 despite a setback in the High Court in his impeachment case.
This is according to lawyer Peter Manyonge Wanyama, who argues that the legal process is still ongoing and that the final determination of the former deputy president’s political future rests with the Supreme Court.
“The Constitution provides adequate safeguards, checks, and balances regarding the fate of the impeached Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. His fate lies in the Supreme Court, not the High Court or the Court of Appeal,” Wanyama stated.
According to the lawyer, while Gachagua may have encountered legal hurdles at the High Court level, the Constitution protects his political rights until all available avenues of appeal have been exhausted.
“Although he has faced setbacks at the High Court, it is important to note that until the Supreme Court upholds the decision, Rigathi Gachagua remains eligible to vie for the presidency,” he explained.
Wanyama further argued that Kenyan constitutional law does not automatically disqualify a candidate from elective office before the completion of the entire judicial process.
“According to the Constitution, a person is not disqualified from running for election unless all avenues for appeal have been exhausted,” he added.
The lawyer cautioned both supporters and critics of Gachagua against drawing premature conclusions from the High Court ruling, insisting that the legal battle is far from over.
“Therefore, for those on the opposite side, it is premature to celebrate or lament the High Court’s decision. The process is not yet complete,” Wanyama said.
The remarks come amid heightened political and legal debate surrounding Gachagua’s impeachment case, which has emerged as one of the most consequential constitutional disputes in recent years.
The High Court on Monday, June 8, 2026, upheld Gachagua’s impeachment but awarded him Ksh50 million in damages.
