Belgut Member of Parliament Nelson Koech has defended the rapid pace of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s impeachment trial at the Senate, asserting that it demonstrates the government’s effectiveness. Speaking on *Daybreak*, Koech pointed out that the gazette notice published shortly after the Senate upheld Gachagua’s impeachment reflects the government’s capability to fulfill its responsibilities.
“There is nothing wrong with the gazette notice that was released at night after the Senate approved the impeachment motion against Gachagua. That is how effective our government is,” Koech stated.
In response, Makueni Senator Daniel Maanzo challenged Koech’s remarks, questioning why the government does not apply the same efficiency to address the needs of Kenyans.
“I wish it was that effective in development,” Maanzo retorted.
Maanzo also raised concerns that President William Ruto and National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula acted prematurely by not adhering to the Elections Act, which stipulates that the Deputy President’s office is an elective position, and that impeachment does not convert it into an appointive one. He further queried the role of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) in clearing Kithure Kindiki for the Deputy President position, especially since the IEBC chairperson and commissioners have yet to be appointed.
“The court order issued by the judge on Friday can only be overturned at the Court of Appeal. It cannot be overturned by another constitutional court,” Maanzo remarked. “That shows bad faith, ill will, and an effort to defeat justice. We saw that on Friday there was a special sitting; in fact, I don’t remember parliament sitting on Friday, and the president forwards a name while conveniently avoiding the Elections Act.”
Gachagua received a reprieve on Friday when the courts suspended the Senate’s resolution to uphold his impeachment and barred Kindiki from assuming office pending the hearing and determination of his case. A three-judge bench, led by Justice Eric Ogola, is expected to decide on the conservatory orders on Tuesday, October 22.
