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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 Muge Law Advocates on behalf of Kirinyaga Woman Representative Jane Njeri Maina. The matter 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.
