Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s impeachment hearing took a dramatic twist on Thursday when his legal team walked out after the Senate declined a request to postpone the proceedings.
The legal team, led by Senior Counsel Paul Muite, had urged the Senate to delay the hearing until Saturday, citing the Deputy President’s health. Gachagua is reportedly undergoing treatment at Karen Hospital after suffering severe chest pains.
However, Senators overwhelmingly rejected the adjournment motion, forcing the proceedings to continue.
DP. Rigathi Gachagua smiles during a past politial meeting in Embu. Photo: The Star Source: Instagram
“Following the Senate’s decision, we cannot proceed without instructions from our client. As such, we take our leave,” Muite told the House before leading the team out.
Senate Majority Leader Aaron Cheruiyot had pushed for the trial to be postponed, supported by Minority Leader Stewart Madzayo, but their effort failed during a voice vote.
Senate Speaker Amason Kingi clarified that the trial, under constitutional timelines, must conclude by Saturday, October 19.
Senate Speaker Amazon Kingi during Gachagua’s ouster hearing in The Senate. Photo: The Star Source: Facebook
With time running out, the Senate must now proceed with closing statements in the absence of the Deputy President unless further developments arise. Gachagua’s allies have criticised the Senate’s decision, arguing that his health should have taken priority.
The nation now watches closely, awaiting the next moves in the impeachment trial and the Deputy President’s recovery.
