Reasons behind CJ Koome’s Meeting with Judges After Meeting President Ruto

As a crucial step towards fortifying the judiciary, Chief Justice Martha Koome convened with members of the Kenya Judges Welfare Association on Monday.

This gathering followed a prior meeting with President William Ruto at State House and aimed at addressing significant issues impacting the judiciary while reinforcing the outcomes of discussions among leaders from the three branches of government.

In a statement after meeting with the judges, Koome pledged to uphold the constitutional principle safeguarding the independence of the judiciary. She emphasized the collective commitment to combat corruption, which undermines the rule of law and the fair administration of justice.

Discussing operational challenges faced by the judiciary, Koome highlighted setbacks in the operationalization of the Judiciary Fund, affecting the smooth functioning of the judiciary. However, she expressed optimism that collaborative efforts to address these challenges would result in more efficient courts.

To tackle corruption issues, the Chief Justice updated the judges on resolutions from the State House meeting. She outlined a collaborative agreement among the judiciary, executive, legislative arms of government, and the Council of Governors to develop policies, guidelines, and legislative proposals to expedite corruption cases and enhance the efficiency of the criminal justice system.

During President Ruto’s chaired meeting, CJ Koome mentioned discussions on implementing a transport policy and leasing framework to ensure secure and reliable mobility for judges, crucial to their duties.

Furthermore, the judiciary is set to receive additional support from the executive and legislature, including budgetary allocations for the modernization of court registries through automation and the expansion of alternative dispute resolution methods.

The allocated budget aims to optimize service delivery efficiency and strengthen the fight against corruption. It will also fund the recruitment of 36 judges, with 25 for the High Court and 11 for the Court of Appeal, along with addressing the judiciary’s transport needs.

The State House meeting, attended by key figures such as National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula, Deputy CJ Philomena Mwilu, Attorney General Justin Muturi, Council of Governors chairperson Anne Waiguru, and Solicitor General Shadrack John Mose, aimed to resolve the standoff between the Executive and Judiciary regarding corruption allegations.

Earlier in the month, President Ruto accused the Judiciary of colluding with cartels to hinder his legacy projects. In response, CJ Koome indicated the Judiciary’s request for a meeting to understand the basis of the complaints, leading to the subsequent talks with President Ruto involving the leadership of the three arms of government.