The Judiciary on Monday, September 12, sent a warning to Kenyans directing them to desist from attacking the Supreme Court following the Presidential petition ruling.
In the statement signed by the Directorate of Public Affairs and Communication, the Judiciary noted that it had learnt that some of the attacks through social media were being funded by political operatives and other interested parties.
It further maintained that the seven-judge bench headed by Chief Justice Martha Koome carried out its mandate as per the Constitution.
“The Judiciary’s attention has been drawn to a recent wave of sponsored sustained attack targeting the Supreme Court of Kenya.
“The Supreme Court, was established under Article 163(1) of the Constitution 2010 and given original exclusive jurisdiction to hear and determine disputes relating to the elections to the office of the President. The Court has therefore only done its work pursuant to the provisions of the Constitution,” the statement read in part.
“The persons sponsoring and executing the attacks on social media to disparage the Court are advised to desist forthwith,” the Judiciary continued.
Deputy Chief Justice Philomena Mwilu
According to the statement, some individuals had singled out individual judges accusing them of taking sides in the petition that was filed by former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
To justify the ruling by the Supreme Court, the Judiciary maintained that a detailed ruling would be released in due course.
“It is further noted that the court is yet to render its reasoned judgment which will outline the basis on which the election of the President-elect was upheld. There is a legal provision of 21 days following the reading of the short version of the judgment to do so.
“Kenyans are therefore requested to exercise patience as they await the full judgment which will shed light and provide clarity on the grounds and rationale of the Court.
“Meanwhile, no Judge of the Supreme Court has written a resignation letter, as claimed in a section of media, because there is no reason to do so. The Court is working in harmony as a cohesive unit,” added the statement.
The statement comes after Siaya governor hit out at the Chief justice over her ruling in the recently concluded election petition. Orengo emphatically claimed that the Chief justice had brought shame to Kenyans.
In her ruling, Chief Justice Koome had referred to Azimio’s petition as a lost cause, hot air, and a worthless pursuit. The ruling has elicited mixed reaction among Kenyans.
