LSK Slams William Ruto Over Sword Remarks, Accuses Him Of Intimidating Judiciary

• The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) criticised President William Ruto's statements, terming them as reckless and a threat to the judiciary,
• LSK President Eric Theuri emphasised the importance of constitutional frameworks for challenging government actions, adding it was the right of any Kenyan
• Ruto hit back at those opposing the housing levy through the courts, terming them criminals and vowing to use a ceremonial sword against them

Didacus Malowa, a journalist at TUKO.co.ke, brings over three years of experience covering politics and current affairs in Kenya.

Nairobi - President William Ruto is on the receiving end following his recent sentiments aimed at those opposing the housing levy through the courts.

During a thanksgiving mass in Kisii on Saturday, December 16, Ruto hit back at individuals who had filed petitions that had set hurdles against his affordable housing project.

What did Ruto say in Kisii

In a statement that could be interpreted to mean it was either the head of state's way or the highway, Ruto said he would deal with his opposers.

Terming them criminals, Ruto said he would use the ceremonial sword handed over during the swearing-in ceremony to deal with them.

"Those who have taken the matter of building houses to court. Don't you want us to provide employment for these young people? So, the person who is going to court claims that he wants to prevent us from building houses so that these young people can get employment. These are individuals who are enemies of our nation, Kenya.

I want to assure you that you gave me the power; I will fight against all these people who want to obstruct us. I just need your prayers. Don't you know I was given a big sword; do you think that sword is for cutting vegetables? Isn't it for clearing away these troublemakers? I will clear them completely until Kenya moves forward." Ruto said.

The ceremonial sword, made of a stainless steel handle and a gold-coated blade, is traditionally kept at the office of The President in Harambee House.

How did LSK respond to Ruto's remarks

At a press briefing on Monday, December 18, the Law Society of Kenya(LSK) termed Ruto's utterances reckless and aggressive.

LSK President Eric Theuri said the president's remarks were a threat to the judiciary and to Kenyans' challenging government decisions.

"The utterances by the president amount to a threat to the court, which is scheduled to hear and determine the appeal and further undermine the authority of the court. The increased instances of the use of extra-judicial means to resolve court cases is a trend that poses significant threat to the rule of law in this country," he said.

Theuri criticised Ruto's remarks, stating that it is the right of Kenyans to challenge government actions through constitutional frameworks.

What the new Affordable Housing Bill 2023 says

In related news, the new Affordable Housing Bill 2023, tabled before parliament, proposed penalties for anyone misappropriating funds from the Housing Levy.

Under this new bill, individuals guilty of misusing the proceeds face a hefty fine of KSh 10 million, a jail term not exceeding five years, or both.

This measure is a stark departure from previous regulations, signifying a firm stance against mishandling the funds allocated for housing development.

The need for the Affordable Housing Bill 2023 arose from a recent court ruling that deemed the previous levy, established under the Finance Act 2023, unconstitutional.