Kenya: Gachagua Defend Right to Run for President in 2027, Shrugs Off 'King Maker' Label

What the report says

Former Kenyan Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua says he intends to contest the presidency in the 2027 general election, despite his impeachment and ongoing court challenge. In a report published by Capital FM and distributed by AllAfrica, Gachagua argued that his removal from office does not automatically disqualify him from seeking elective office while his appeal is still being heard. He said he will pursue relief at the Court of Appeal and, if needed, the Supreme Court. The article is dated 24 August 2026 and places the remarks in Nairobi.

The story says Gachagua has already appealed a High Court ruling that upheld his impeachment. That court also found his fair-hearing rights were violated during Senate proceedings and awarded him constitutional damages, but it did not overturn the impeachment itself. The court said the process could not be reversed after his successor, Kithure Kindiki, had been appointed. Gachagua disputes that outcome and says the legal findings should affect the validity of his removal.

The article also notes that some senior lawyers, including Law Society of Kenya president Charles Kanjama and Senior Counsel Nelson Havi, have suggested that he may remain eligible while appeals are pending. Separately, Gachagua rejected attempts to cast him as a mere “kingmaker” for the opposition, saying he still sees himself as a presidential contender rather than only a backer of another candidate.

Beyond this report, Kenya’s 2027 race is still taking shape, and Gachagua’s eligibility may remain a live legal and political issue as the appeals continue.