Koome ‘up in arms’ over withdrawal of Justice Mugambi’s security

By Jabali Media

Chief Justice (CJ) Martha Karambu Koome is ‘up in arms against the powers that be,’ on the backdrop of withdrawal of High Court Judge Lawrence Mugambi’s security.

Addressing the press on Monday, Koome said Mugambi’s security was withdrawn over the weekend.

On Friday, the judge handed Acting Inspector General (IG) of Police Gilbert Masengeli a 6-month sentence, after finding him guilty of contempt of court.  

Koome said the action by the National Police Service (NPS) which she termed as retaliatory was uncalled for.

“Retaliatory measures against a judicial officer are called for. The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) calls for the national police service to restore the security of Hon. Justice Mugambi,” she maintained.

She added, “It is crucial to remember that judicial independence is not a privilege for Judges; it is the cornerstone of justice for all citizens. Judges must be free to make decisions solely based on law, without fear of retribution of interference.”

The CJ urged NPS to immediately restore Mugambi’s security. Masengeli failed to appear in court for over five times.

He was required to appear and explain the whereabouts of three Kenyans, who were reportedly abducted by people believed to be police officers, in Kitengela, Kajiado County mid-August.

His lawyers have already filed for an appeal against the sentence.