Kenya’s High Court stops replacement of Deputy President

Kenya’s High Court has issued a temporary order halting the replacement of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.

This announcement followed the approval by both Parliament and the Senate of Interior Minister Kithure Kindiki as the new deputy. Kindiki is a close ally of President William Ruto.

Gachagua was removed from office late Thursday after senators impeached him on five out of eleven charges, including gross constitutional violations. He had requested a postponement of his hearing due to chest pains but was denied and failed to appear before the Senate.

In response, Gachagua’s lawyers filed a court application to challenge his removal, arguing the allegations were baseless and lacked evidence.

The case is set to be heard by a full bench on October 24, where the constitutional issues he raised will be evaluated. This bench will be appointed by Chief Justice Martha Koome.

The court order also prevents President Ruto from nominating a successor until Gachagua’s case is resolved.