Judicial services are set to be paralysed this week as judges, magistrates, and judicial staffers withdraw services in protest at the killing of Magistrate Monica Kivuti. United in grief and shock, members of the judiciary gathered at Nairobi’s Milimani Law Courts to mourn and protest the tragic incident.
Magistrate Kivuti was fatally shot by a senior police officer at the Makadara Law Courts, an act that has left the judiciary reeling. The late Hon. Kivuti was shot after delivering a ruling that displeased the officer, who then approached her, scolded her, and shot her at close range.
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Stephen Radido, president of the Kenya Judges and Magistrates Association (KJMA), condemned the lack of security and safe working conditions for judicial staff. “The organs of government which should be facilitating the judiciary to ensure a safe and secure workspace have failed,” said Radido.
To demand better working conditions and to stand in solidarity with the bereaved family, the judiciary will halt services from June 19 to June 21, 2024. The judicial staff are calling for several changes to enhance their safety, including prohibiting firearms in courtrooms unless sanctioned by the courts and ensuring that court users do not conceal their identities.
Judicial officers have also stated they will no longer conduct proceedings in open-air or makeshift structures. “Members of the KMJA and the KJSA shall not conduct any Judicial Proceedings in the open air whether under a tent, container, any makeshift structure or otherwise,” Radido added.
The judiciary demands immediate government action to ensure their safety and uphold the rule of law.
Judicial Services to Halt as Colleagues Protest Magistrate Kivuti’s Killing
