In the ongoing impeachment proceedings against Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, a petitioner has raised concerns over potential bias involving the lead judge, Justice Eric Ogola. The petitioner, through lawyer Ndegwa Njiru, argued that Justice Ogola’s wife holds a position in a state parastatal, creating a conflict of interest that could compromise the fairness of the trial.
Njiru told the court that Ogola’s wife, Florence Oluoch, was allegedly appointed by Cabinet Secretary Soipan Tuya, a move the petitioners believe was influenced by President William Ruto as part of a broader power-sharing agreement. Njiru contended that this connection to the executive branch raises serious concerns about Justice Ogola’s ability to preside over the case impartially.
The petitioners are calling for the court to recuse itself on the grounds of bias and are requesting that Chief Justice Martha Koome empanel a new bench to hear the case. Njiru argued that, under the current circumstances, they do not have confidence that Justice Ogola can provide a fair trial for Gachagua.
This claim adds to the growing concerns surrounding the impeachment trial, with multiple parties questioning the neutrality of the judicial process.
