LSK urges CJ Koome to fight impunity, intimidation in Judiciary

The Law Society of Kenya has assured its firm support to Chief Justice Martha Koome as she takes up the mantle at the helm of the Judiciary.

LSK, in a statement yesterday, acknowledged some of the challenges CJ Koome will encounter, among them a culture of impunity and intimidation that has crept into the Judiciary.

“The Chief Justice takes office at a time when there is a developing culture of impunity and attacks on Judicial officers by parties dissatisfied with court orders,” the institution said.

The Society further hopes that the new Chief Justice will finally put into rest the issue of the stalemate on appointment of Judges.

“During the interviews, a question was put to her on the failure by the president to appoint Judges. The time has come when her proposals and strategies in dealing with the issue will be put to test,” the statement, signed by LSK Secretary Mercy Wambua read in part.

LSK however expressed confidence in her leadership and hopes that CJ Martha Koome will prioritise among others the digitisation of Judicial operations, devolution and improved infrastructure.

It termed her appointment as Kenya’s first female Chief Justice a historic milestone.

During her swearing-in ceremony on Friday at Supreme Court buildings, Nairobi, CJ Koome urged for backing from the Executive as she discharges her duties.

She asked the Executive to accord the Judiciary the necessary support by obeying court orders.

“I have no difficulties to state that the independence of the Judiciary cannot be interfered with. Any party trying to direct how the Judiciary should decide a matter would be interfering with the Constitution,” she said.