Parliament received 224,907 views from the public on DP Gachagua’s impeachment – report

𝐓𝐮𝐞𝐬𝐝𝐚𝐲, 𝐎𝐜𝐭𝐨𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝟖, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟒
𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐥𝐢𝐚𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐁𝐮𝐢𝐥𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬, 𝐍𝐚𝐢𝐫𝐨𝐛𝐢 

National Assembly Minority Whip, Hon. Millie Odhiambo, has revealed that over 200,000 responses were received during the countrywide public participation exercise regarding the special motion for the impeachment of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.

According to the report, 65.1% supported the motion, 33.81% opposed it, and 1.09% expressed neutral or alternative views.

Presenting the public participation report on behalf of the House leadership to the MPs, Hon. Odhiambo noted that Parliament is already seized of the many pressing issues raised by Kenyans during the Public Participation exercise.

She emphasized that the National Assembly had prioritized adhering to constitutional guidelines to ensure a timely response.

“The public was invited to share their views either in support, opposition, or by offering alternative perspectives. I commend Kenyans for their growing awareness of civic rights and responsibilities, as seen through the high level of engagement, including on social media,” Hon. Odhiambo informed the House as it prepared to debate the impeachment motion against DP Gachagua.

She further remarked on the diversity of opinions expressed during the public forums. 

“While many were vocal and expressive, we saw less coverage of areas where the responses were more measured. This report contains photographic evidence of peaceful public engagements across various constituencies.”

However, she acknowledged some challenges, including political interference and disruptions in key areas like Bomas of Kenya, Murang’a, Ol Kalou, Kipipiri, and Nyeri Town. 

“In some constituencies, there was pressure on officers to declare results prematurely, while insecurity in regions like Bura Constituency led to lower participation,” Odhiambo added. 

She also highlighted issues such as expectations for monetary compensation and the use of inappropriate language in some submissions.

Hon. Odhiambo concluded by expressing her personal view on the necessity of public participation in quasi-judicial processes such as impeachment. 

“Though the courts have ruled it necessary, I believe public participation may not be as critical in cases like this, akin to asking for public input in judicial decisions."