By Karim Were
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has dismissed the KSh50 million compensation awarded to him by the High Court, saying his legal battle was never about money but about defending constitutional principles and due process.
Speaking on June 9, 2026, Gachagua argued that the court’s decision to uphold his impeachment while simultaneously finding that his rights were violated during the Senate proceedings presents a contradiction that must be challenged.
According to Gachagua, the compensation awarded for the violation of his right to a fair hearing does not address the broader constitutional concerns raised by the impeachment process. He announced plans to appeal the judgment, seeking a determination from the Court of Appeal on what he described as critical questions regarding the protection of constitutional rights in impeachment proceedings.
The former deputy president used the occasion to reinforce his political ambitions ahead of the 2027 General Election. He assured his supporters that the High Court ruling does not prevent him from contesting for the presidency and expressed confidence that he could emerge as a candidate under a united opposition coalition.
Gachagua also outlined the political steps he has taken since leaving office. He revealed that consultations with supporters following his impeachment led to the formation of the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP), which he said is intended to strengthen his political base and build alliances across the country.
The DCP leader further announced a 45-day consultation programme at his Wamunyoro residence, where he plans to engage supporters on the process of identifying a single opposition candidate to challenge President William Ruto in the 2027 presidential election.
While the Senate has indicated it will appeal the High Court’s ruling on the damages awarded, Gachagua appears focused on both the next legal phase of his case and the broader political battle ahead, positioning himself as a key figure in efforts to unite the opposition before the next election.
