Despite his best efforts, Gachagua is under the authority of 47 senators. They will consider the impeachment motion against him on Wednesday and Thursday.
His latest setback occurred on Wednesday, October 16, the first day of the Senate hearing. On this day, the court declined to issue conservatory orders to halt the impeachment trial. It marked the second time his attempt to stop the trial failed within a span of less than 12 hours.
Gachagua is effectively on borrowed time regarding his position as Deputy President. A legal confrontation is anticipated on Wednesday. The National Assembly has appointed a distinguished team led by Siaya Governor James Orengo.
The Siaya Governor possesses extensive experience in legal matters. He has a deep understanding of the Kenyan constitution. He has also served in the Senate for two terms.
Orengo is prepared to lead a team of 14 lawyers. There are other notable legal minds in the former senator’s corner. These include Paul Nyamodi, Eric Gumbo, Moses Kipkemoi, Muthomi Thiankolu, Peter Wanyama, and Kenny Kipkoech. Additionally, Joan Cheruto is part of this team. Erick Mwingi, Bonface Mawira, Kevine Otieno, Alex Mboya, Kennedy Kyalo, and John Mwangi also contribute to the team.
Gachagua’s team The Deputy President has a strong legal team. They support him and are led by senior counsel Paul Muite. Paul Muite identifies as an ‘old-school lawyer.
‘ Other senior lawyers in Gachagua’s camp include Elisha Ongoya, Tom Macharia, and Victor Swanya. Additional members are Ndegwa Njiru, John Njomo, and Faith Waigwa. The team also consists of Amos Kisilu, George Wandati, and George Sakimpa. Lastly, Andrew Muge, Eric Naibei, Julia Omwamba, and Willis Echesa are part of this group.
Gachagua’s legal team is expected to line up key witnesses. An array of lawyers will make a final attempt to challenge the charges against the Deputy President.
The Deputy President is facing 11 serious charges. These charges include abuse of office, disrespecting the office of the president, and economic crimes, among others.
People are already speculating. They believe a new Deputy President will be appointed before Mashujaa Day celebrations in Kwale on October 20. However, there is still no official confirmation of this.
However, Gachagua’s final resort in the event of impeachment would be to contest his impeachment in court. The three-judge bench, with judges Erick Ogolla, Antony Mrima, and Frida Mugambi, declined to halt the Senate trial. They assured Gachagua’s team that the Deputy President may still appeal the Senate’s decision to impeach him afterward.
