Nyandarua Senator John Muhia Methu has sparked renewed political debate after commenting on the court outcome surrounding the impeachment of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, stating that although rights may have been violated during the process, the final decision remains valid.
Methu remarked: “Your rights were violated, but the decision of that violation stands,” a statement that has triggered discussion over the relationship between constitutional violations and the legality of political outcomes.
The impeachment of Gachagua unfolded in October 2024 following a motion introduced in the National Assembly accusing him of gross constitutional violations, abuse of office, and undermining the government. The motion was passed by MPs after debate, sending the matter to the Senate for a formal trial.
In the Senate, Gachagua was found guilty on several charges after a heated hearing that included witness testimony, legal submissions, and his own defence team’s arguments. The Senate subsequently voted by a two-thirds majority to remove him from office, making him the first Deputy President in Kenya’s history to be impeached under the 2010 Constitution.
The process was marked by political tension and legal challenges, including attempts to halt the proceedings in court. However, the Senate vote ultimately stood, and Gachagua ceased to hold office.
Kindiki’s rise to Deputy President
Following the vacancy, President William Ruto nominated then Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki to replace Gachagua.
Kindiki was subsequently approved through the constitutional process and sworn in as Deputy President in November 2024 after the courts cleared the way for his inauguration, ending weeks of legal uncertainty over the succession.
Ongoing debate
Methu’s remarks have reignited public debate over whether proven violations of rights during impeachment proceedings should invalidate the outcome or whether the final ruling remains binding unless overturned on appeal.
Legal analysts remain divided, with some arguing that procedural fairness is central to constitutional justice, while others maintain that impeachment outcomes stand unless formally quashed by a higher court.
The discussion continues to reflect broader tensions in Kenya’s political and legal landscape over accountability, due process, and the limits of parliamentary power.
