Chief Justice Martha Koome has issued a firm warning to politicians and critics targeting the Judiciary, declaring that judicial independence is a “non-negotiable principle” that must be respected by all.
Speaking on Thursday at the Annual Law Society of Kenya (LSK) Conference in Diani, Kwale County, Koome condemned public attacks and threats directed at judges and judicial officers, saying such rhetoric is a grave affront to the rule of law. She likened the growing hostility to a past era when the authority of the courts was routinely undermined.
“My position has been unequivocal. Any party aggrieved by a judicial decision, even the government, must seek redress through appeals or reviews – not through defiance or vilification of judges or judicial officers. No one has the right to choose which court orders to obey and which to ignore,” she asserted.
The CJ defended the Judiciary’s handling of recent protest-related cases, noting that courts have consistently granted bail and bond to accused persons, with the High Court reviewing cases where parties were dissatisfied. She emphasized that anticipatory bail is a legitimate legal tool, not an endorsement of crime, echoing remarks by LSK President Faith Odhiambo.
Koome stressed that judicial independence does not shield officers from accountability, reiterating her zero-tolerance stance on corruption. She cited the launch of a Judiciary mobile app as part of efforts to encourage transparency, with a clear message: “Do not bring money to the Judiciary.”
She also lauded Generation Z for boldly defending their rights during recent demonstrations, insisting that concerns raised – including abductions – must be addressed. “We have sworn to defend the Constitution and must continue to tackle these concerns,” she affirmed.
In a cautionary note, Koome warned about the re-emergence of criminal gangs, citing intelligence reports that point to a worrying trend as the country approaches the 2027 General Election.
Her remarks come at a time of heightened political tension, with sections of the political class accusing the Judiciary of bias, and the courts pushing back to safeguard their constitutional mandate. Koome’s stance signals an unyielding resolve to protect the rule of law and judicial independence in Kenya’s democratic space.
