Kenyan Court Allows Senate to Debate Gachagua Impeachment

Kenya's High Court has ruled against Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua's attempt to halt Senate proceedings regarding his impeachment, which follows a historic National Assembly vote of 281 to 44 on 11 charges, including corruption and inciting anti-government protests. Justice Chacha Mwita emphasized the need for parliamentary proceedings to continue without interference. Gachagua, who denies all allegations, plans to legally contest the impeachment, which, if passed by a two-thirds majority in the Senate, would be unprecedented for a sitting deputy president in Kenya. The Chief Justice has appointed a three-judge panel to handle various legal challenges related to the impeachment. Tensions surrounding the situation have escalated, with public clashes reported between supporters and opponents of Gachagua. President William Ruto has remained silent on the matter but previously indicated a desire to avoid public discord with his deputy.