Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has strongly condemned what he described as a calculated scheme by the government to remove Chief Justice Martha Koome from office, claiming that the move is part of a broader agenda to silence dissent and dismantle the judiciary in preparation for manipulating the upcoming general elections.
Gachagua, speaking at a church service held at PCEA Imenti North Presbytery in Meru County, rallied behind Koome, urging the government to halt any efforts to oust her.
He argued that the Chief Justice’s firm stance against impunity has made her a target of political forces intent on eroding Kenya’s democratic institutions.
“The state is targeting Chief Justice Martha Koome for one simple reason her unwavering stand against impunity.
Her voice in the judiciary is crucial for upholding the rule of law, and they want to silence her,” Gachagua said, adding that the alleged plot to remove Koome is just the latest part of a systematic strategy to weaken the judiciary.
Gachagua also linked the alleged removal of Koome to the wider political landscape, claiming that the initial move was to remove him from office, and now the government seeks to eliminate the Chief Justice to pave the way for rigging the upcoming elections.
“This is a well-calculated scheme. First, they targeted me, now they want to remove the Chief Justice, and soon, they’ll come after the entire judiciary. This is all part of their plan to prepare for electoral fraud,” he asserted, his voice laden with concern.
The former Deputy President expressed strong support for Chief Justice Koome, urging her not to be intimidated.
“CJ Koome, stand firm. Don’t let them intimidate you. The people of Kenya are with you,” he added, his words resonating with the gathered crowd.
Gachagua further appealed to the international community to pay close attention to the situation in Kenya.
He claimed that the government had already captured the legislature and the executive, and was now moving swiftly to control the judiciary, which would result in a dangerous imbalance of power.
“The international community must keep a keen eye on Kenya. We need the world to see what is happening here. The state has already captured the legislature and the executive, and now they are moving to capture the judiciary. This is the moment for global solidarity to prevent Kenya from slipping into authoritarianism,” Gachagua urged.
On the political dynamics within Kenya’s central region, Gachagua addressed the issue of unity in the mountain, which has been a subject of tension within the political sphere.
He alleged that President William Ruto’s attempts to divide the region had been thwarted, and the residents of the area remained united.
“The unity of the Mountain is non-negotiable. The attempt by President Ruto and his allies to divide us has failed. We stand together, and we will continue to stand together for the sake of our people and our country,” Gachagua stated emphatically.
Accompanying Gachagua at the service was his wife, Pastor Dorcas Gachagua, as well as local and national leaders who joined him in delivering his strong message.
The event, attended by a large congregation, was marked by fervent prayers and expressions of solidarity, particularly towards the Chief Justice.
Gachagua’s remarks come at a time when tensions within the political and judicial spheres continue to rise.
With the general elections fast approaching, all eyes remain on Kenya as the nation grapples with issues of governance, judicial independence, and political integrity.
