• Thursday, 19 September 2024
State House defends Ruto’s Judiciary remarks, slams LSK’s calls for protests

State House defends Ruto’s Judiciary remarks, slams LSK’s calls for protests

State House has criticized the Law Society of Kenya (LSK) for their criticism of President William Ruto regarding his sentiment about the independence of the Judiciary and constitutionalism.

The State House Spokesperson, Hussein Mohamed, dismissed the LSK's counsel, asserting that the President has consistently upheld the rule of law and respected court orders, even about his affordable housing pet project.

"We, however, agree with the Law Society of Kenya that Executive impunity is unacceptable. However, legislative impunity, by its measure, is also unacceptable, and so is judicial impunity. As a believer in the Constitution, President Ruto recognizes the imperative to lead by example in defending our constitutional values. This includes shielding innocent citizens from judicial misconduct perpetrated by corrupt officers colluding with vested interests," Mohamed stated.

He went on to emphasize that corruption within the judiciary, executive, legislature, or among the general public should not find refuge behind the shield of judicial independence.

According to Mohamed, the government must expose and hold accountable those engaged in corrupt practices, regardless of their positions.

"Corruption, whether within the Judiciary, the Executive, or the Legislature and, indeed, among the general public, must not find refuge behind the shield of judicial independence. It is our duty to expose and hold accountable those who engage in corrupt practices whoever they may be and wherever they are," he added.

Mohamed expressed concerns about the possible return of judicial impunity in Kenya, drawing parallels with a previous era during President Mwaki Kibaki's tenure.

"We are back to the clamour for judiciary reforms last witnessed during President Mwaki Kibaki's tenure when it was said: 'Why pay for a lawyer’s services when you can pay a judge?' We must never allow the return of such impunity in Kenya," he declared.

While addressing the delicate balance between the three branches of government, Mohamed questioned; "The Executive is mandated to deliver to the people after an election. Should the President fulfil commitments to the people and their needs, or should the Executive seek concurrence from the Judiciary to deliver on what the people voted for?"

 

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