The push to remove Chief Justice (CJ) Martha Koome and several Supreme Court judges is gaining momentum after starting as a social media discussion among a group of lawyers accusing them of corruption and misconduct.
CJ Koome’s position now appears uncertain following the Judicial Service Commission’s (JSC) decision to initiate formal proceedings that could lead to her removal.
This step was taken after the commission received a petition from lawyer Nelson Havi, calling for the removal of the Chief Justice along with other Supreme Court judges.
On Thursday, January 16, JSC Vice Chairperson Isaac Ruto confirmed receipt of the petition during a press briefing after meeting with fellow commissioners.
He explained that the allegations would be carefully reviewed before any recommendations are forwarded to President William Ruto for further action.
The petition, filed on January 10, 2025, seeks the removal of CJ Martha Koome, Deputy Chief Justice Philomena Mwilu, and Supreme Court Justices Mohammed Ibrahim, Smokin Wanjala, Lady Justice Njoki Ndungu, Isaac Lenaola, and William Ouko.
Ruto highlighted that since the start of 2025, the JSC had received a total of five petitions and complaints against judges.
The statement clarified that the petition by Havi accuses the mentioned judges of serious misconduct, corruption, and unethical behavior.
“The complaints submitted will be handled following due process as outlined by the rule of law and the Fair Administrative Action Act.
The JSC remains committed to safeguarding the judiciary’s independence while ensuring accountability,” Ruto stated.
Additionally, Ruto revealed that two other petitions had been filed against High Court Judge Alfred Mabeya, citing similar allegations of gross misconduct and inappropriate behavior.
These complaints were submitted separately by lawyer Nelson Havi and Edwin Dande, the Chief Executive Officer of Cytonn Kenya.
Responding to the mounting pressure, CJ Koome dismissed the allegations and made it clear she had no intention of resigning.
She asserted her commitment to serving her full term, emphasizing she would not give in to threats or pressure.
“You have asked if I will resign. I, too, ask, why should I resign? I have a clear tenure to serve, and no valid reasons have been presented to demand my resignation,” Koome firmly stated.
The JSC, which consists of 11 commissioners and a Secretary, who also serves as the Chief Registrar of the Judiciary, will review the petitions.
Since CJ Koome is directly mentioned in the complaints, she will not participate in the discussions, which will instead be chaired by her deputy, Vice Chairperson Isaac Ruto.
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