Kalonzo joins Raila, LSK and JSC in criticizing Ruto for attacking Judiciary

Wiper party leader Kalonzo Musyoka has joined the Law Society of Kenya (LSK), Judicial Service Commission (JSC) and Azimio leader Raila Odinga in urging the judiciary not to be intimidated by anyone, including President William Ruto.

In a statement on January 3, Kalonzo stated that it was wrong for President William Ruto to attack the Judiciary, which is an independent arm of government.

“It is now evident that those who pretend to uphold the rule of law are now clearly exposing their true colours.

“They have paid lip service to the cardinal principles of the rule of law enshrined in The Constitution of Kenya, 2010.

LSK led by President Eric Theuri address the media on December 18, 2023. They have announced nationwide protests for lawyers from next week. PHOTO/COURTESY

“In the face of this onslaught on the profession and practice of law in this country, we call upon the Judiciary to remain firm and resolute in order to protect citizens’ rights,” Kalonzo noted.

Kalonzo added that if there are allegations of corruption by some judicial officers, there is a clear framework in place to investigate them, notably the Judicial Service Act of 2011.

“We agree with the call by the LSK for nationwide peaceful protest throughout the coming week in support of the rule of law and in solidarity with the Judiciary,” said the Wiper leader.

President William Ruto speaking during an event at Karomboithi Village in Njabini, Nyandarua County on January 2, 2024. Photo: Rigathi Gachagua/X

At the same time, chairman of the Senior Counsel Bar Dr. Fred N. Ojiambo noted in a statement that it was wrong for the president of Kenya to attack the judiciary.

“It is a matter of grave regret that the highest office in the land, namely that of the President of the Republic of Kenya, should sink as low as to brazenly undermine another of one of the other two pillars of any democratic state, namely the Judiciary,” stated Ojiambo.

Ojiambo explained that the three pillars of government, namely the Executive, the Legislature and the Judiciary, are independent of each other, and have separate mandates to assure all Kenyans of a system which will discharge impartial justice for all without fear, favour, or ill will.

On the other hand, the Law Society of Kenya (LSK) President Eric Theuri on Wednesday, January 3, announced that LSK members will hold nationwide protests.

During a press briefing in Nairobi, Theuri stated that all officers of the court are expected to put on purple ribbons next week to signify their support for the Judiciary.

The countrywide peaceful demonstrations will be held in order to castigate President Ruto’s remarks that his government will disregard court orders.