The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has opened formal investigations into bribery allegations involving a High Court judge. The claims, which have been circulating widely on social media, have sparked concern among Kenyans about integrity within the Judiciary.
In a statement released Monday, JSC Secretary Winfridah Mokaya confirmed that the commission has taken up the matter with urgency. She assured the public that the probe will be carried out lawfully, transparently, and with full adherence to the Constitution.
“The Commission has commenced investigations into the matter and reaffirms its unwavering commitment to uphold integrity and ensure accountability within the Judiciary,” Mokaya said.
Articles 168 and 172 of the Constitution give the JSC the mandate to safeguard the independence, discipline, and accountability of judicial officers. Mokaya also pledged that the commission will keep Kenyans informed as the investigations progress.
The JSC has not revealed the identity of the judge at the center of the allegations. However, the development comes at a time when the Judiciary is facing increasing public scrutiny over corruption claims involving senior judicial officers.
Chief Justice Martha Koome has repeatedly emphasized her administration’s zero-tolerance stance on corruption. She has vowed that no judicial officer found culpable of unethical conduct will be shielded from accountability.
As part of ongoing reforms, the Judiciary has been introducing digital systems such as e-filing, virtual court sessions, and automated registries. These measures are designed to reduce face-to-face interactions that create opportunities for bribery and to improve efficiency in court processes.
In addition, Court Integrity Committees (CICs) have been established across all court stations to monitor and report integrity-related issues.
The JSC’s move to begin investigations is seen as a critical step in restoring public trust in the Judiciary. Surveys show that many Kenyans remain concerned about corruption in courts, where bribery and file disappearance are often reported.
By addressing these allegations decisively, the JSC aims to reinforce accountability and strengthen confidence in the rule of law.
