Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has appeared at the Milimani Law Courts for the hearing of a petition challenging his impeachment.
He arrived mid-morning dressed in a black suit and a patterned red tie, walking alongside Pastor Dorcas, who wore a dark blue suit.
The couple was accompanied by their two sons and a host of lawmakers, including Senators Karungo Thang'wa (Kiambu), Dan Maanzo (Makueni), Kamau Murango (Kirinyaga), Joe Nyutu (Murang’a), Kipipiri MP Wanjiku Muhia, and several former MPs.
The matter is before a three-judge bench comprising Justices Erick Ogolla, Anthony Mrima and Freda Mugambi, with the judges expected to issue directions on pending applications and hear arguments on the substantive petition.
Gachagua has since dropped his bid for reinstatement as Deputy President.
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Instead, he is seeking to have the impeachment nullified, his tenure affirmed, and full benefits awarded, arguing that the process was unconstitutional.
In his petition, he challenges the legality and constitutionality of the impeachment process that led to his removal from office, arguing that it was marred by procedural irregularities, violations of constitutional safeguards and denial of his right to a fair hearing.
The petitions also question decisions and actions taken during and after his tenure. His legal team maintains that some of the steps taken against him were politically motivated and lacked a legal basis.
Several parties have filed applications in the case, including requests for conservatory orders, responses from state agencies and submissions on the powers of Parliament, the role of the Senate and the constitutional threshold for impeachment.
The case is expected to address key constitutional questions, including the removal of a Deputy President, separation of powers and the extent of judicial oversight over parliamentary proceedings.
Speaking in Mombasa on Sunday, Gachagua said he has built a watertight case to prove he was ousted on unconstitutional grounds and expressed confidence in the Judiciary.
"I will be in court from tomorrow to Wednesday to file a petition challenging that illegal process. I told my children about it and they opposed it saying I faced humiliation," he said.