Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua is notably absent on Monday, June 8, 2026, as the High Court is expected to deliver its much-awaited judgement in the case challenging his impeachment, marking the first time he has missed a key session since the proceedings began.

The ruling is being delivered at the Milimani Law Courts by a three-judge bench comprising Justices Erick Ogolla, Anthony Mrima, and Fred Mugambi.

Despite Gachagua’s absence, his legal team was present in court to represent his interests. Among the lawyers leading his defence are Njeri Maina and other members of the legal team who have been challenging the constitutionality of the impeachment process.

The lawyers have argued that the former deputy president was denied a fair hearing and that both the National Assembly and Senate violated constitutional provisions during the proceedings.

Gachagua allies in the courtroom

The courtroom was, however, filled with Gachagua’s political allies who turned up in large numbers ahead of the judgement. Those present included Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) Deputy Party Leader Cleophas Malala, Kirinyaga Woman Representative Jane Njeri Maina, Kiambu Senator Karungo wa Thang’wa, Kajiado North MP Onesmus Ngogoyo, former nominated Senator Gloria Orwoba, and East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) member Kanini Kega, among other leaders allied to the former Deputy President.

Gachagua’s absence has attracted significant attention, given that he had personally attended several previous court sessions. During those appearances, he was often accompanied by members of his family, led by his wife, Reverend Dorcas Rigathi, who sat beside him throughout the hearings in a show of solidarity.

His decision to skip the final day has now sparked speculation and raised questions about his whereabouts and the reasons behind his absence from one of the most consequential moments of his political career.

Case background

The case stems from Gachagua’s impeachment by Parliament in October 2024, a decision he has challenged in court on grounds that the process was unconstitutional and procedurally flawed. His legal team has sought to have both the National Assembly and Senate resolutions quashed while also seeking compensation for losses arising from his removal from office.

The judgement is expected to determine whether the impeachment process met constitutional standards and could have far-reaching implications for Kenya’s political landscape as the country heads towards the 2027 General Election.