In a major setback for President William Ruto, the High Court has stopped the rollout of his newly announced multi-agency team intended to fight corruption.
On Wednesday morning, Justice Bahati Mwamuye issued a conservatory order temporarily suspending the implementation of the President’s directive. This decision remains in place until the court hears and decides on a petition challenging the legality of the task force.
“Pending the inter-partes hearing and determination of the applicants’ notice of motion, a conservatory order be and is hereby issued staying the operation and implementation of the Presidential Proclamation on the Establishment of the Multi-Agency Team on War Against Graft,” Justice Mwamuye ruled.
Court Timelines and Next Steps
The judge ordered that the petitioners must serve all the involved parties with both hard and soft copies of the application by Thursday, August 21, 2025.
- The respondents and any interested parties were given up to August 29, 2025 to submit their official responses.
- The petitioners were also allowed to reply to those responses (if necessary) by September 5, 2025.
Justice Mwamuye also emphasized that during the next court mention, both sides should show they have complied with the directives and propose how the matter can be heard and finalized within 90 days to avoid delays.
Why the Petition Was Filed
The case was filed by activist Magare Gikenyi together with three other complainants. They argue that:
- President Ruto overstepped his constitutional powers by forming a new anti-corruption task force.
- They claimed that the President’s move interferes with the legally mandated role of the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC).
- According to them, such a move violates several provisions of Kenya’s Constitution, specifically on separation of powers and roles of independent institutions.
The Bigger Picture
This court order comes amid growing concerns about the government’s approach to fighting corruption. Some critics believe that the creation of a new task force could be a way of bypassing existing institutions like the EACC.
The petitioners believe that unless the Constitution is followed strictly, such actions could weaken the rule of law.
For now, the anti-graft team announced by President Ruto cannot proceed until the court completes its hearings and delivers a final judgment.
This ruling is seen as a significant legal and political blow to the President, especially as his administration tries to show commitment in dealing with corruption.
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