Chief Justice Martha Koome has reiterated Judiciary’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring accountability within its ranks.
Speaking during the handing over ceremony by the outgoing Chief Registrar Anne Amadi on Friday, Koome asserted that the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) stands ready to process complaints against any Judge or Judicial Officers implicated in corruption.
However, the Chief Justice emphasized that such complaints must strictly adhere to the procedures outlined in the constitution.
“The Commission will only act on the basis of evidence and not on blanket statements or allegations that have not been substantiated. Doing otherwise, will mean an overthrow of the Constitution and the rule of law,” remarked Koome.
Koome, who is also the Chairperson of the JSC, urged Judges and Judicial Officer to continue discharging their duties in accordance with their oaths of office.
“Let us remain true to the constitutional instruction that the discharge of judicial duties shall be subject only to the Constitution and the law, and not the direction or control of any person or authority,” she stated.
Koome’s sentiments come in the wake of recent remarks by President William Ruto challenging the integrity of the Judiciary.
Ruto accused the Judiciary of shielding corrupt Judges under the pretext of judicial independence to undermine government development projects such as the affordable housing programme.
“We will ensure that we all respect the sovereignty of the people of Kenya. When I say, and I repeat, that we must deal firmly with corruption in the judiciary, I mean that. We will completely root out corruption in the judiciary,” declared President Ruto during the launch of affordable housing projects.
