LSK cautions DP over public pronouncement on Judiciary

Law Society of Kenya President Erick Theuri. [Samson wire, Standard]

Law Society of Kenya (LSK) President Eric Theuri has urged Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua to file a formal complaint if aggrieved by any justice system instead of lamenting in public.

Theuri was referring to DP remarks on Sunday while on a visit to Elgeyo Marakwet where he said that he would file a petition to remove Justice Esther Maina over a graft case she handled in 2022.

Speaking on January 15 on Citizen TV, Theuri criticised Gachagua over his statement on Justice Maina urging him to follow legal procedures to address his grievances.

"I have heard the sentiments that were made by the deputy president,
If you have evidence of corruption against a particular judge you just present it to the Judicial Service Commission. You do not need to go and make public pronouncements but let us wait and see what happens," said Theuri.

Theuri termed Gachagua's statement as an 'attempt to seriously encroach into the independence of the judiciary'.

On Sunday the DP said that he would follow Chief Justice Martha Koome's advice and seek removal of Justice Maina.

"On Thursday this coming week at 2.15 pm,I will personally present a petition before Lady Chief Justice Martha Koome against Justice Esther Maina for her removal from the judiciary for misconduct and corruption," said Gachagua.

He further said that Justice Maina declared his Sh.202m fortune as proceeds of crime without giving him a chance to defend himself.

Theuri has also mentioned that the Executive has become 'aggressive' as the judiciary fights to assert its authority in difficult circumstances.

The LSK President's remarks come amidst the ongoing conflict between the executive and the judiciary that has seen President William Ruto vow to weed out corrupt judicial officers.