The year 2024 was marked by a series of high-profile legal battles that captured public attention and underscored the dynamic interplay between law, politics, and society.
From political impeachments to international corporate indictments, these cases not only dominated headlines but also sparked widespread debate.
Below is an overview of these significant legal battles:
1. Kawira Mwangaza ouster
Kawira Mwangaza, the Governor of Meru County, faced significant political challenges in 2024. Accusations of misconduct and abuse of office led to impeachment proceedings against her.
The Senate deliberated on the charges, but did not uphold her impeachment is still in office.
2. Jackie Maribe and Jowie Irungu trial
The trial of former TV journalist Jackie Maribe and her ex-fiancé Joseph 'Jowie' Irungu continued, with both facing charges related to the 2018 murder of businesswoman Monica Kimani.
In 2024, the court concluded the hearings, Jackie Maribe was acquitted due to insufficient evidence linking her directly to the crime.
Jowie Irungu on the other hand was handed the death sentence and will be spending the rest of his life behind bars.
3. Jacktone Odhiambo Chiloba case
The murder case of LGBTQ+ activist Edwin Chiloba, in which Jacktone Odhiambo was the prime suspect, progressed through the legal system.
In 2024, Odhiambo was found guilty of the murder and sentenced to 50 years in prison, marking a significant moment in Kenya's judicial handling of crimes against LGBTQ+ individuals.
4. Rigathi Gachagua impeachment
Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua was impeached following the Senate's upholding of charges, including gross violation of the constitution and incitement of ethnic hatred. He contested his removal, filing multiple court cases.
The High Court initially blocked the swearing-in of his successor, Kithure Kindiki, but later lifted the order, allowing the appointment to proceed.
5. Mithika Linturi impeachment
Former Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mithika Linturi faced impeachment proceedings over allegations of corruption and mismanagement within his ministry.
The Senate conducted hearings and acquitted him of all the charges.
6. Housing levy legal battle
The Finance Act, 2023, which introduced a housing levy, faced legal challenges questioning its constitutionality.
In July 2024, the Court of Appeal declared the Act unconstitutional due to procedural flaws in its enactment.
Subsequently, in August 2024, the Supreme Court issued conservatory orders suspending the Court of Appeal's judgment, allowing the Act's provisions to remain in effect pending further hearings.
7. Nonini and Brian Mutinda copyright case
Rapper Nonini sued influencer Brian Mutinda for unauthorized use of his song "We Kamu" in a commercial advertisement without consent.
The court ruled in favor of Nonini, ordering Mutinda to pay damages for copyright infringement.
8. Nyashinski and Nigerian producer legal dispute
Musician Nyashinski was embroiled in a legal dispute with a Nigerian music producer over copyright and royalty claims for a commercial the singer did for a mobile phone brand.
The case is still active.
8. Mutoriah and actress Foi Wambui
Like Nonini, Mutoriah took actress Foi Wambui to the judicial corridors for the use of his song ‘Beta’ in a commercial without his consent.
9. The Finland Scholarship scandal
Hearings into the Finland Scholarship Scandal began with students and parents accusing Uasin Gishu county officials of misappropriating funds meant for studies in Finland testifying before the courts.