Chief Justice Martha Koome has expressed grave concerns over the withdrawal of her security detail, describing the move as a direct threat to judicial independence and her personal safety.
In a strongly-worded statement issued on January 23, 2025, the Chief Justice accused state organs of undermining constitutional principles by exposing her to vulnerabilities amidst ongoing accusations of corruption led by lawyers allied with the William Ruto administration.
CJ Koome criticised the government for what she termed as a dangerous precedent, noting that the withdrawal of security is not merely an administrative act but a targeted attack on the Judiciary.
“Security for the Chief Justice is not a personal privilege but a structural necessity to ensure the Judiciary can function autonomously and without fear,” read part of CJ Martha Koome’s press statement.
The Chief Justice has recently faced increasing pressure from lawyers Ahmednasir Abdullahi and Nelson Havi, who have accused the Judiciary of corruption in what is being referred to as the Jurispesa campaign.
Koome condemned these accusations as part of a larger scheme to tarnish the Judiciary’s reputation and interfere with its ability to function independently.
By withdrawing her security, the state sends a dangerous signal that constitutional officeholders are susceptible to external coercion, eroding public trust in the Judiciary as a check against abuse of power.
Koome emphasised that judicial independence is the cornerstone of a functional democracy and warned that such interference could unravel decades of progress in entrenching constitutional governance.
She also expressed concern over the weakening of the Judiciary Police Unit, stating that the reduction in personnel further jeopardises the safety of judicial officers and court premises.
“This act of withdrawal sends an unmistakably damaging message,” Koome said, urging the National Police Service to immediately restore her security and strengthen judicial protection mechanisms.
The Chief Justice called on civil society, the public, and all stakeholders to defend judicial independence, urging state organs to collaborate responsibly while respecting constitutional boundaries.
