Wamuzi News Ke
In a firm and calculated statement that has sparked political tremors across the country, former National Assembly Speaker and current Attorney General Justin Muturi has issued a sharp warning to politicians and the public over the growing use of the term “former Deputy President,” in reference to embattled DP Rigathi Gachagua.
Speaking during a high-level public event, Muturi condemned the usage of the phrase and made it clear that as far as the Constitution is concerned, Rigathi Gachagua remains the Deputy President of Kenya—unless and until the courts declare otherwise.
“I want to give a brief warning. I hear people saying ‘a former DP’; there is nobody in Kenya today by that name. The first one is the president, and the second one is here with us. Are we together?” Muturi said in a stern tone.
“Until we wait for the court to make a determination, we don’t know any other. The second DP is Rigathi Gachagua. So to the MPs, if you have not heard about it, we don’t want that talk of former DP until the courts decide.”
Muturi Draws Legal Line in the SandMuturi’s remarks come amid swirling political uncertainty, with DP Gachagua facing both legal and political pressure following a fallout with sections of the ruling coalition.
Speculation about his future has dominated political discourse, and some leaders have begun referring to him in the past tense—sparking confusion and internal divisions.But Muturi, the government’s chief legal advisor, dismissed such talk as premature and dangerous, insisting that only a formal judicial ruling could end Gachagua’s tenure.
“This country is governed by law, not propaganda,” Muturi added. “No position is declared vacant through rumors or speeches. Until the courts speak, Deputy President Gachagua holds office fully and legally.”
Political Implications MountMuturi’s intervention has sent a strong signal to both Parliament and Cabinet: any move to delegitimize the current Deputy President without due process will be treated as unconstitutional.
Several lawmakers are now walking back comments they made in recent days, with some acknowledging that they “may have overstepped.” Others, however, maintain that political dynamics have shifted and insist Gachagua’s days in office are numbered.
But legal experts have sided with Muturi. “Muturi is correct in principle,” said constitutional lawyer Linda Wekesa. “There is no provision in law for public or political disqualification of the DP without either resignation, impeachment, or judicial nullification.”
A Divided Executive?The tension between State House and the Office of the Deputy President has deepened over the past few weeks, with Gachagua reportedly sidelined from key policy briefings and regional tours.
Still, Muturi’s comments appear to reaffirm the government’s official stance—that the office remains intact and Gachagua is fully in charge unless legally removed.
What to Expect.
Increased scrutiny of any political rhetoric referring to Gachagua as “former” Deputy President.Legal consequences for public servants who act contrary to the Constitution’s provisions regarding executive positions.
Court hearings in the coming weeks that may determine the future of Gachagua’s position.
