Questions have emerged around High Court judge Josephine Mong’are after claims surfaced linking her to a bribery case that recently led to several arrests. The issue gained public attention after lawyer Nelson Havi shared details on Facebook suggesting that individuals arrested in the case were allegedly seeking a bribe on her behalf.
According to Havi’s post, auctioneer Dr. Kennedy Ngambau Mulwa, also referred to as Kennedy Mulwa, was arrested together with former judge Joseph Mutava. Havi stated that Mulwa is the spouse of Justice Mong’are and that the two were reportedly in contact by phone shortly before the arrest took place. He also claimed that this relationship had been confirmed by the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC).
Havi further suggested that the connection could explain why the judge has not appeared before the EACC to record a statement. According to him, she fears the investigation could lead to criminal charges if the matter proceeds.
The situation began on March 9, 2026, when EACC officers arrested Mutava along with advocate Kimani Wachira, auctioneer Kennedy Mulwa, and another individual identified as Tom Awili. The group was arrested at the Karen home of Raphael Tuju in Nairobi.
Investigators said the suspects were allegedly demanding KSh10.4 million to influence the outcome of a commercial dispute that was being handled in the High Court. The EACC said it acted after receiving a complaint from Tuju. Following their arrest, the suspects were taken to EACC offices and later released on bail of KSh200,000 each as investigations continued.
Video footage released by the anti-corruption agency showed parts of the arrest operation. Reports circulating after the arrests claimed that Mutava told investigators he was collecting the money on behalf of Justice Mong’are, who was presiding over the commercial case in question. The claim has remained a central point of discussion in public debate.
Justice Mong’are, whose full name is sometimes given as Josephine Wayua Wambua Mong’are, has served as a High Court judge and handled several commercial matters over the years. When questions about her possible involvement emerged, she moved to court seeking protection from the investigation.
The High Court later issued orders temporarily stopping the EACC from summoning, questioning, or taking action against her while the matter is being reviewed. This conservatory order has effectively paused that part of the investigation.
Havi’s social media post has attracted many reactions online. Some people have supported calls for a full investigation into everyone mentioned in the case, while others have urged caution and asked that the facts be verified carefully before conclusions are made.
Corruption allegations involving the judiciary often draw strong reactions in Kenya because courts play a major role in resolving disputes and protecting rights.
Attention remains on how the case will unfold and whether more evidence will emerge in the coming weeks.
