Gachagua has since said the one-day period set aside for public participation wasn't sufficient.

The exercise must be undertaken in all the 290 electoral constituencies in Kenya, the diaspora constituency and 1450 electoral wards where the presidential election takes place

The High Court sitting in Kerugoya has directed the National Assembly to organize another public participation exercise in every constituency touching on Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s impeachment.

This followed a petition filed by Kirinyaga Woman Representative Jane Njeri Maina which was certified as urgent. 

The National Assembly has only organised public participation in 47 centres in all counties.

Justice Richard Mwongo said the public hearing scheduled for today (October 4) may proceed as a first stage but the respondents in the case to organize similar public hearings for citizens at least at the constituency level. 

This, he said, will enable the constituents of members of parliament responsible for the impeachment process nationally to engage with and participate in hearings by which citizens at that level can participate and offer their representations. 

The Judge in issuing the order made reference to Supreme Court decisions that have been the guiding principle when it comes to meaningful public participation.

The outcome of these decisions is that public participation must be genuine and accompanied by reasonable notice. 

The matter which was certified as urgent was filed by Kirinyaga Women Rep Jane Njeri Maina.

In her papers, she has sued the Senate, National Assembly and others.

The Judge directed she serves her papers on the respondents ahead of a mention date on Friday next week when he will issue further directions in the case.