Gachagua’s next options after High Court upheld impeachment

It is a ruling that wraps Gachagua’s presidential ambitions in clouds of uncertainty — one that locks him out of holding public office. Having fashioned himself as the face of the opposition, he now faces a fate similar to that of former governors Mike Sonko and Ferdinand Waititu, whose political careers were eclipsed in a similar fashion. Gachagua now joins the list of political casualties in the impeachment thread.

If upheld through all stages of the legal process, despite Gachagua having lodged an appeal, the impeachment would reduce the opposition line-up by one of its key lieutenants. But could this moment usher in a kingmaker role for the former Mathira Member of Parliament?

Given the support Gachagua and his DCP party enjoy in the Mt Kenya region, the former Deputy President still possesses significant political influence and the power to shape outcomes. Many will be anxious to see whom he endorses for the top office as the scramble for his backing intensifies within opposition ranks.