Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua is seeking over Ksh80 million in compensation, alongside pensions and state benefits, following his impeachment in October 2024, in a case now before the Milimani High Court.
Gachagua, who appeared before a three-judge bench, has maintained that he is not seeking reinstatement to office. Instead, he is pushing for financial compensation covering what he says are lost earnings and benefits for the remaining 35 months of his term.
Through his legal team led by senior counsel Paul Muite, Gachagua is challenging both the legality of his impeachment and the process through which it was conducted. His lawyers told the court that the matter hinges on two key issues: the quashing of what they term an unconstitutional impeachment and payment of all dues attached to the office of Deputy President.
The former Deputy President has broken down his financial demands into several categories. Under special damages, he is seeking approximately Ksh42 million in unpaid salary, calculated at a monthly rate of Ksh1.2 million over the 35-month period he would have served.
He is also claiming Ksh22.8 million in gratuity, described as a retirement appreciation package equivalent to 31 per cent of his salary. In addition, Gachagua is seeking Ksh700,000 in airtime allowance, calculated at Ksh20,000 per month, as well as medical cover and official transport benefits for the entire period.
Beyond salary-related claims, Gachagua has also invoked retirement provisions under the law governing former deputy presidents. He is seeking a monthly pension estimated at Ksh980,000, which represents 80 per cent of his last drawn salary. He is also demanding a one-off lump sum payment of about Ksh14 million as part of his retirement package.
His compensation request further extends to state-provided benefits, including two official vehicles, fuel allowance of Ksh180,000 per month, and full maintenance of the vehicles by the government. He is also seeking support staff such as drivers, cooks, cleaners, and armed security personnel.
Additionally, Gachagua is requesting diplomatic passports for himself and his spouse, alongside access to VIP lounges at airports across the country.
His legal team has argued that the impeachment process was rushed, alleging that parliamentary proceedings were expedited in a manner that limited his ability to mount a proper defence.
The court is expected to continue hearing arguments as the case proceeds, with the ruling anticipated to have significant constitutional and financial implications regarding impeachment and entitlements of high-ranking state officers.
