NAIROBI, Kenya — A recent Court of Appeal decision has intensified political friction in Kenya, with President William Ruto facing calls to dissolve his administration.
The ruling pertains to Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s ouster, leading to heightened scrutiny of the government’s stability.
On May 9, the Court of Appeal ruled that Deputy Chief Justice Philomena Mwilu lacked the constitutional authority to appoint a bench to hear petitions challenging Gachagua’s impeachment.
The court directed Chief Justice Martha Koome to constitute a new bench within 14 days to fairly hear the petitions.
The ruling has sparked renewed energy in Gachagua’s political camp and fresh criticism of Ruto’s leadership. Critics, led by former Kakamega Senator Cleophas Malala, are now pushing for the dissolution of the current government, labeling it as illegitimate and ineffective.
Meanwhile, allies of President Ruto have urged the Mt. Kenya electorate to dismiss attempts by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua to sway their support away from the Kenya Kwanza administration.
National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah and other leaders conducted an empowerment drive in Mathira constituency, emphasizing the government’s development agenda and warning against divisive politics.
The political landscape in Kenya remains volatile as the nation awaits the Chief Justice’s decision on the new bench to hear Gachagua’s case.
Analysts say, the outcome could have significant implications for the country’s leadership and future political alignments.
