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Raila Drops Bombshell Exposing Ruto’s Alleged Strategic Move To Appoint Chebukati as Chief Justice

by Daily Trends
written by Daily Trends

Azimio party leader Raila Odinga has dropped a bombshell, accusing President William Ruto of orchestrating a strategic move to appoint former Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) chairperson Wafula Chebukati as the Chief Justice of Kenya.

Raila in his recent media briefing unveiled a purported plot hatched during a crucial meeting between the Judiciary, Parliament, and the Executive at State House, Nairobi.

Raila claims that President Ruto has been offered slots in the gazetted Court of Appeal vacancies, intending to use two of them to appoint Chebukati and his predecessor at IEBC, Issack Hassan, as Court of Appeal judges.

The grand plan allegedly involves Chebukati’s subsequent elevation to Chief Justice before the 2027 General Election.

According to Raila, this clandestine agreement was reached during a meeting at State House, Nairobi, where Chief Justice Martha Koome and Mr. Ruto allegedly struck a deal that involved additional funding to the Judiciary.

Raila details the intricate agreement, asserting that in exchange for additional funding, Chief Justice Koome agreed to advertise vacancies for five high court judges and 11 Court of Appeal judges.

The advertisement for the 11 judges has reportedly already been gazetted. Notably, Raila claims that Ruto intends to forward the names of Chebukati and Ahmed Issack Hassan as Court of Appeal judges, with Chebukati later rising to the position of Chief Justice.

The alleged political maneuvering raises serious concerns about the independence of the judiciary and the potential influence of the executive in judicial appointments.

If proven true, this revelation could have far-reaching consequences for the credibility of the judicial system and democratic processes in Kenya.

As Raila Odinga brings these accusations to the forefront, the Kenyan political landscape is left grappling with the potential ramifications of this alleged plot.

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President William Ruto meeting with Chief Justice Martha Koome
Politics

DETAILS: What Ruto, CJ Koome Agreed During The State House Meeting

by Mustafa Juma
written by Mustafa Juma

State House Spokesperson Hussein Mohamed has revealed the details of the Monday morning meeting between President William Ruto, Chief Justice Martha Koome and National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula.

Hussein in a statement shared via his official X account said President Ruto had convened the leadership meeting of the Executive, Legislature and the Judiciary, at the request of the Judiciary.

The meeting aimed at deliberating on building approaches to fight corruption, enhance accountability and to facilitate the efficient and seamless delivery of services to the people of Kenya.

The Executive, Judiciary and Legislature have agreed to each submit, within 30 days, proposals on fighting corruption, improving service delivery and enhancing institutional accountability to a forum of the National Council of the Administration of Justice convened by the Chief Justice.

To optimize the efficient service delivery and the fight against corruption, the Executive and legislature will support the Judiciary’s request for additional budgetry.

Below is the full statement on the deliberations of the meeting.

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Martha Koome with President Ruto
Politics

Chief Justice Martha Koome Meets President Ruto at State House

by Daily Trends
written by Daily Trends

Chief Justice Martha Koome Monday morning held a meeting with President William Ruto at State House, Nairobi.

The meeting aimed to end the stand-off between the Judiciary and the Executive arm of the government.

Although the Judiciary and State House have remained mum on the details of the meeting, Daily Trends has established that National Assembly speaker Moses Wetang’ula was in attendance.

President Ruto had earlier on accused unnamed judges of working with cartels to frustrate the government agenda following injunctions on his legacy projects of health and housing.

The President’s remarks sparked an uproar with the Law Society of Kenya holding demonstrations to protest, arguing that the independence of the Judiciary was being threatened.

President Ruto and his allies continued with the attacks, insisting that the head of state had only called for a dialogue over the alleged corruption in the corridors of justice.

CJ Koome then proposed a meeting, saying she was willing to listen to the president so as to find a lasting solution in what was widely opposed by the legal experts led by the Law Society of Kenya.

Last week, the president announced that he was ready and willing to meet the Chief Justice.

The Opposition led by Raila Odinga opposed the meeting saying it compromises judicial independence.

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Politics

President Ruto’s “Mambo ni Matatu” Threat Against The Judiciary Sets The Internet Ablaze

by Daily Trends
written by Daily Trends

President William Ruto has intensified his battle against corruption within the Judiciary, and his latest statement has raised eyebrows and ignited a fresh wave of discussions.

The head of state through his official social media accounts on Thursday, January 4, reiterated his stand against the Judiciary, warning that impunity of bribing judges so as to derail, delay, or sabotage Kenya’s imminent transformation will never happen under his watch.

In his statement, President Ruto noted that flamboyant lawyer Ahmednasir Abdullahi had previously warned him of sabotage by corrupt judicial officers.

The first in command further says that he assured the senior counsel that there are many good officers in the judiciary and that his administration will root out the corrupt.

In what looks like a threat against the judicial officers, President Ruto went ahead to quote his famous phrase of “Mambo ni Matatu..waende jela, wahame Kenya ama waende mbinguni”.

“Ahmednasir SC ,you warned me of sabotage by corrupt judicial officers. I told you there are many good officers in the judiciary and that we will root out the corrupt. We shall. Muite SC, the impunity of bribing judges so as not to derail, delay, or sabotage Kenya’s imminent transformation will never happen under my watch. Not a single cent will be used to bribe nobody. Mambo ya wafisadi wote ni yale nilisema…..,” President Ruto posed.

The president’s post has stirred mixed reactions, with a section of netizens faulting him for the stand.

Some have argued that the move is meant to silence the Judiciary, with others saying commenting that it might cost him the 2027 presidency.

“So corruption is only corruption when it doesn’t favour you? What have you done with the parliament zakayo,” one of the X users posed.

“Wish you used the same energy to hold to account Kimwarer dam culprits. 63B of taxpayers money went down the drain. According to you, Judges are well meaning when they vindicate your cronies. Double standards!” another X user reacted.

President Ruto sparked the conversation when he remarked that the judiciary was being bribed by a few individuals to sabotage his projects.

While making reference to the court order that stopped the housing levy, the head of state said his administration will start disobeying such orders that are aimed at derailing his work.

This attracted condemnation from different sects, among them the Law Society of Kenya, the Kenya judges and magistrates associations, Chief Justice Martha Koome and a section of politicians.

LSK on Wednesday threatened to stage national protests to force President Ruto to withdraw his remarks against the Judiciary, but the head of state seem snot to be letting go of the war any time soon. Or is he?

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Politics

Ruto, Judiciary War Escalates as State House Issues Another Statement

by Mustafa Juma
written by Mustafa Juma

Just hours after the Law Society of Kenya (LSK) urged President William Ruto to take back his remarks on the Judiciary, vowing to take to the streets for peaceful protests next week, State House has issued a statement telling off the lawyers.

In statement issued by State House spokesperson Hussein Mohamed, President Ruto has told off LSK for criticising and attempting to advise the President on the independence of the Judiciary and Constitutionalism.

According to the statement, President Ruto’s push for judicial reforms is unstoppable.

State House intimated that the advice by LSK was not necessary as the President has consistently upheld the rule of law and respected court orders, even in regards to his affordable housing pet project.

“We, however, agree with the Law Society of Kenya that Executive impunity is unacceptable. However, legislative impunity, by its own measure, is also unacceptable and so is judicial impunity,” reads the statement in part.

According to the State House Spokesperson, it would be a dereliction of the President’s oath of office, and a betrayal of the people’s mandate to allow their hopes and aspirations to be obstructed by corruption and impunity.

LSK had earlier on announced that it will organize peaceful protests across the country in defense of the rule of law and in solidarity with the Judiciary.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, January 3, LSK President Eric Theuri accused the President of undermining the rule of law and the independence of the Judiciary, which he said was “a cornerstone of democracy.”

Moments later, Chief Justice Martha Koome called out perceived judicial intimidation by the Executive and urged judges and judicial officials to carry on with their work without fear of reproach or coercion. 

It all started when President Ruto, while speaking in Nyandarua on Tuesday, claimed that the the Judiciary harbours rogue elements out to sabotage his legacy.

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Politics

CJ Martha Koome Hits Back at President Ruto Over Judiciary Remarks

by Mustafa Juma
written by Mustafa Juma
  • Chief Justice Martha Koome has taken a firm stand against allegations made by President Ruto and his allies, accusing some officers within the Judiciary of operating with impunity.
  • The Chief Justice highlighted the positive duties of the State in ensuring respect for the law and adherence to it.
  • CJ Koome underscored the significance of respecting court orders, particularly when they involve disputes between citizens and the State.

Chief Justice Martha Koome has fired a response to President William Ruto over his remarks on the Judiciary.

CJ Koome has taken a firm stand against allegations made by President Ruto and his allies, accusing some officers within the Judiciary of operating with impunity.

In an internal memo to judges, judicial officers and staff seen by Daily Trends on Wednesday, January 3, she condemned the remarks as they touch on matters presently still being deliberated in court, noting that they can hence only serve to intimidate judges to rule in a certain way.

The Supreme Court President also emphasized the importance of upholding the integrity of the judicial processes and called upon all Kenyans to report any acts that could compromise the judiciary.

Defending the Rule of Law

CJ Koome underscored the significance of respecting court orders, particularly when they involve disputes between citizens and the State.

She emphasized that deliberate disregard or disobedience of court orders by State officials undermines citizens’ right to access justice, posing a threat to the effectiveness of the legal system that citizens rely on to enforce their rights and legal duties.

Positive Duties of the State

The Chief Justice highlighted the positive duties of the State in ensuring respect for the law and adherence to it.

She urged State and Public Officers to recognize their responsibilities in upholding the rule of law, emphasizing the need for effective mechanisms to resolve disputes.

This statement reaffirms the Judiciary’s commitment to maintaining a legal system that citizens can trust and depend on.

JSC’s Commitment to Accountability

In response to the allegations, Chief Justice Koome assured the public that the Judiciary Service Commission (JSC) is dedicated to keeping the Judiciary in order.

She emphasized that any judges or magistrates with questionable behavior would be promptly investigated, and the JSC has a proven record of taking swift action against those found in breach of the Judicial Code of Conduct and Ethics or engaged in corrupt practices.

Encouraging Whistleblowers

She further encouraged individuals with information on any acts threatening the integrity of judicial processes to come forward and report such cases to the JSC.

CJ Koome noted that the JSC is committed to transparency, and any allegations of misconduct or corruption will be dealt with firmly and swiftly in accordance with the Constitution.

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Politics

Atwoli Breaks His Silence After Supreme Court Upheld Ruto’s Win

by Mustafa Juma
written by Mustafa Juma

COTU Secretary General Francis Atwoli has broken his silence moments after the Supreme Court of Kenya upheld President elect William Ruto’s Win.

The Chief Justice Martha Koome-led court on Monday afternoon ruled that the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) had conducted a free, fair and verifiable election.

Atwoli has been heard confidently saying that Ruto will not become the president of the republic of Kenya.

The COTU boss has maintained his remarks during the Azimio la Umoja-One Kenya Coalition campaigns, and before that, he had even been heard saying that Ruto will not be on the ballot.

However, after the Supreme Court verdict, Atwoli took to his official social media handles and congratulated President elect Ruto.

Atwoli noted that COTU had unanimously agreed during their executive board meeting that they would thank and Congratulate the victor.

He went ahead to appeal to the workers and Kenyans at large to remain peaceful after the Supreme Court verdict.

“During COTU (K) Executive Board meeting on 17th August, we resolved THAT immediately after the Supreme Court judgement, we must thank and congratulate the victor. Consequently, we congratulate President William Ruto. We appeal to workers and Kenyans in general to remain peaceful,” Atwoli tweeted.

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Politics

Why President Uhuru Has Moved To Court Of Appeal

by Yahil Felix
written by Yahil Felix

President Uhuru Kenyatta has moved to the court of appeal to file a notice of appeal against the High Court’s order that requires him to appoint six judges he had rejected over alleged integrity issues, within 14 days.

The President had refused to appoint the six judges citing intelligence briefs from the National Intelligence Service (NIS).

However, the Judicial Service Commission, which did the vetting of 41 judges to be appointed argued that the brief did not provide evidence.

The President has said he is not happy with the ruling rendered a week ago by Justices George Dulu, William Musyoka and James Wakiaga. Through lawyer Wawru Gatonye, he intends to appeal against the entire 69-page judgement.

The appeal comes two days after Attorney General Paul Kihara Kariuki also filed a similar notice, signaling that the impasse may continue.

The attorney general lodged his notice through deputy Chief State Counsel Emmanuel Bitta.

The President and the AG are aggrieved by the court’s ruling that the Head of State can be sidestepped in the appointment of judges.

Both want to challenge a finding by the court that should the President fail to make the appointments and facilitate an oath-taking ceremony within 14 days, he will lose control of the process and the judges will be deemed dully appointed.

The judges at the center of the legal dispute are George dunga, Aggrey Muchelule, Joel Ngugi and Weldon Korir, together with Mombasa Chief Magistrate Evans Makori and High Court Judith Omange.

When the 14 days given to the president lapse, it will be presumed his power or authority on the issue will be deemed duly appointed to their respective offices, said the High Court.

Subsequently, Chief Justice Martha Koome and JSC will be at liberty to take all necessary steps in having the nominees sworn in and assigned duties.

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Politics

Havi: CJ Martha Koome Had A Hand In Uhuru’s Appointment Of 34 Instead Of 40 Judges

by Mustafa Juma
written by Mustafa Juma

Chief Justice Martha Koome had something to do with President Uhuru Kenyatta’s appointment of 33 instead of 40 judges that were recommended by the Judicial Service Commission (JSC), Law Society of Kenya (LSK) president Nelson Havi has claimed.

Taking to his official Twitter account, Havi questioned CJ Koome’s presence at State House during the swearing in of the appointment judges.

President Kenyatta on Friday swore in the 34 judges at State House Nairobi despite protestations from lawyers and politicians over his move to reject six judges from the list recommended by Judicial Service Commission.

The ceremony was witnessed by CJ Koome and Chief Registrar of Judiciary Anne Amadi and a host of judges.

“If CJ Martha Koome had nothing to do with President Uhuru Kenyatta’s appointment of 33 instead of 40 Judges what was she doing at State House? How did the Judges end up there in robes? Did she tell the President what she has jotted down in that underwhelming unsigned note?” Havi posed.

Those who took the oath of office were seven judges heading to the Court of Appeal, 10 to the Environment and Land Court and 18 others to the Employment and Labour Relations Court.

JSC had recommended the appointment of 41 judges in August 2019 but one died in a road accident last year.

President Kenyatta, however, appointed 34 on Thursday leaving out justices Joel Ngugi, George Odunga, Weldon Korir and Aggrey Muchelule, all currently serving as High Court judges.

He also rejected Evans Makori and Judith Omange Cheruiyot, who had been recommended for the Labour Court.

The Court of Appeal is required to have 30 judges but currently has 13 judges, following the retirement of some judges and promotion of others including justices Koome and William Ouko, who were elevated to the Supreme Court. 

Distancing herself from the recruitment process, which happened close to two years ago – before she was the CJ, Koome urged Uhuru to appoint the remaining six judges.

In a statement on Friday, she said, “The 34 Judges have today taken their oath of office witnessed by H.E the President. I note with great concern that 6 persons who wererecommended by the JSC for appointment were not gazetted.”

Koome gave the example of what happened in January 2014, when the JSC recommended the appointment of 25 nominees as judges, and in June 2014, the President initially appointed 11 of them and subsequently appointed the remaining 14.

On Friday, the LSK lawyers’ lobby demanded that the president should appoint the six remaining judges omitted from his gazetted list of appointments, or it will go to court.

LSK said in a statement by its Chief executive Mercy Wambua that the action of the president was unlawful and reeks of impunity.

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