Chief Justice Martha Koome and the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) are sounding alarm bells after Judge Lawrence Mugambi’s security detail was pulled. This drastic action came in the wake of Mugambi’s decision to sentence Acting Inspector General of Police Gilbert Masengeli to six months in jail for ignoring court orders.
Speaking from the Supreme Court, Koome condemned the withdrawal of Mugambi’s security, branding it as a blatant intimidation attempt. She stated that such measures undermine the core of judicial independence and disrupt the public’s trust in the legal system.
“The removal of security from a judge who made a legally justified decision is an attack on justice itself,” Koome declared. “This action sends a dangerous message that judicial decisions can be challenged through coercion and threats.”
Koome called for the immediate restoration of Mugambi’s security, asserting that it is a fundamental part of the judge’s ability to perform his duties without fear. The JSC is reaching out to police officials to rectify this situation swiftly.
The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) has also joined the fray, condemning the action and demanding the reinstatement of Mugambi’s security. LSK Vice Chair Mwaura Kabata criticized the withdrawal as a grave threat to Mugambi’s safety and a challenge to the integrity of the judiciary.
Kabata warned that such intimidation tactics could sway judicial decisions and undermine the rule of law. “Judges should be able to make their rulings based on legal merit alone, not under the shadow of threats or retaliation,” Kabata said.
The LSK has urged the National Police Service and other authorities to restore Mugambi’s security immediately. Failure to do so would not only show disrespect for court orders but also endanger the very foundation of Kenya’s democratic system.
Background on Masengeli’s Legal Troubles
Masengeli’s legal issues began when he was summoned to explain the disappearance of three individuals allegedly abducted by people posing as police officers. His failure to comply with multiple court orders led to his recent sentencing. The judge had directed Masengeli to surrender to the Commissioner General of Prisons, with an ultimatum to appear in court within a week to avoid imprisonment.
[10:15, 18/09/2024] Dennis: Chief Justice Koome and the JSC demand the immediate reinstatement of Judge Mugambi’s security following his controversial ruling against Acting IG Masengeli.
