Kalonzo, Wamalwa Call for Kindiki's Resignation, Term Him Illegitimate DP: "The Process Is Voided"
- The opposition led by Kalonzo Musyoka and Eugene Wamalwa has raised concerns about the legitimacy of DP Kithure Kindiki's position following the court's ruling in Rigathi Gachagua's impeachment case
- The two argued that the Court of Appeal's decision to overturn the formation of the three-judge bench means the impeachment process against Gachagua is now void
- The opposition leaders have argued that Kenya cannot have two deputy presidents, insisting that Kindiki should resign from office
Don't miss out! Join Tuko.co.ke Sports News channel on WhatsApp now!
Faith Chandianya, a journalist at TUKO.co.ke, brings over three years of experience covering politics and Current Affairs in Kenya
The political landscape in Kenya is heating up as the opposition, spearheaded by Wiper party leader Kalonzo Musyoka and Democratic Action Party Kenya's Eugene Wamalwa, delivers a bold ultimatum.
Source: Twitter
They are now calling for the resignation of Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, setting the stage for a fierce showdown over leadership and accountability.
Why do Kalonzo, Wamalwa want Kindiki's resignation?
Speaking to the press, Wamalwa stated that Kindiki's position is invalid following the court’s ruling in the impeachment case of former deputy president Rigathi Gachagua.
The Court of Appeal had overturned Deputy Chief Justice Philomena Mwilu’s decision to form a three-judge panel to hear multiple petitions contesting Gachagua's removal from office.
"You are illegally in office and, therefore, an illegitimate deputy president. Do the honourable thing, Professor Kindiki, and resign," Wamalwa said.
Echoing the DAP-K leader's remarks, Kalonzo said the country now appears to have two deputy presidents, suggesting that this is not feasible, as a nation can only have one second-in-command.
He added that Kindiki's resignation would allow the proper process to unfold following the Court of Appeal's ruling in Gachagua's case.
"The Court of Appeal's ruling has clearly shown the illegality and political manipulation involved in attempts to have Gachagua removed as deputy president," he said.
The party leader argued that it is now clear Gachagua's removal from office was politically motivated.
He stated that the court's decision to overturn Mwilu's move to form a three-judge bench means the entire impeachment process was invalid.
"The whole thing is voided," he argued.
Will Chief Justice Martha Koome form new bench?
This came after the Court of Appeal instructed Chief Justice Martha Koome to form a new panel of judges to hear and decide Gachagua’s case at the High Court.
Source: Facebook
The three-judge panel, led by Francis Tuiyott, Daniel Musinga, and Mumbi Ngugi, specified that Koome must establish a new bench within 14 days.
The ruling came after several petitioners requested a different panel to hear the case.
They claimed their right to a fair trial was violated when the initial three-judge bench in Kerugoya refused to step down despite allegations of bias and conflicts of interest, which were said to compromise their impartiality.
One petition, filed by activist Enock Aura through his lawyer Harrison Kinyanjui, called for a five-judge bench, arguing that the case raised significant legal issues that warranted a larger panel.
The appeals centred around whether the deputy chief justice had the constitutional authority to form the bench in Kerugoya, which refused to block Kindiki's swearing in.
Proofreading by Jackson Otukho, copy editor at TUKO.co.ke.
Source: TUKO.co.ke
