Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua is facing legal action following comments he made regarding High Court Judge Esther Maina. On Tuesday, March 5, 2024, two human rights organizations, the Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHRC) and the Muslims for Human Rights (MUHURI), filed a lawsuit against the Deputy President, labeling his statements as derogatory and detrimental to the integrity of the Judiciary.

In their petition submitted to the High Court, the lobby groups condemned Gachagua's remarks, which were made in response to ongoing court cases, asserting that such statements could potentially incite constitutional turmoil.

The petitioners highlighted Gachagua's public address on Sunday, January 14, 2024, where he publicly criticized and accused High Court Judge Lady Justice Esther Maina of corruption. They demanded that Gachagua issue a retraction and apology in two nationally circulated newspapers within 14 days of the court's ruling.

Furthermore, the petitioners sought a declaration from the court that Gachagua's unfounded allegations against Justice Maina constituted a threat to her reputation and independence. They also argued that his conduct tarnished the honor of the Deputy President's office and violated the Judiciary's independence, as guaranteed by Article 75 of the Constitution.

Gachagua's initial remarks on January 14, 2024, included his intention to petition Lady Chief Justice Martha Koome for the removal of Justice Esther Maina from the Judiciary, accusing her of defaming his character and alleging his wealth to be illicit. However, he later withdrew his petition, expressing openness to Chief Justice Koome's suggestion of engaging in dialogue to address concerns about judicial accountability.

In a statement from the Office of the Deputy President, Gachagua acknowledged the national discourse on judicial transparency and accountability, endorsing Chief Justice Koome's call for dialogue on these matters, which he and President William Ruto supported.