State House Blasts LSK Over Calls For Protests, Defends William Ruto's Judiciary Remarks

• State House spokesperson Hussein Mohamed dismissed the LSK’s statement condemning William Ruto, stating that he is committed to upholding the rule of law
• He highlighted Ruto’s efforts to correct past injustices by appointing judicial officers who had been unjustly denied their rightful appointments
• Mohamed emphasised Ruto’s commitment to combating corruption within all arms of government and his efforts to shield Kenyans from judicial misconduct

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

Nairobi - State House spokesperson Hussein Mohamed has defended President William Ruto amid an uproar over his remarks targeting Judiciary and judicial officers.

In a statement on Wednesday, January 3, Mohamed dismissed the Law Society of Kenya (LSK) statement condemning the head of state.

He explained that Ruto is committed to upholding the rule of law and constitutional principles, with an emphasis on not interfering with the independence of the Judiciary.

"The Law Society of Kenya has today purported to advise President William Ruto on constitutionalism, and specifically the independence of the Judiciary. They need not.

The president has consistently championed upholding the rule of law and constitutional principles, with a particular emphasis on safeguarding the independence of the Judiciary. This commitment has been evident through his unwavering respect for and compliance with recent court orders, notably those pertaining to the Government's Affordable Housing Program," read his statement in part.

He pointed out that from the onset of Ruto's presidency, he took deliberate measures to correct past injustices by appointing judicial officers who, due to Executive impunity, had been unjustly denied their rightful appointments.

Why is Ruto after the Judiciary

He explained that they agree with LSK that impunity is unacceptable within all arms of government.

Mohamed disclosed that Ruto recognises the need to lead by example in defending Kenya's constitutional values.

He added that this involves shielding Kenyans from judicial misconduct perpetrated by corrupt officers colluding with vested interests.

"Corruption, whether within the Judiciary, the Executive or the Legislature and, indeed, among the general public must not find refuge behind the shield of judicial independence. It is our duty to expose and hold accountable those who engage in corrupt practices whoever they maybe and wherever they are," he added.

LSK to hold countrywide protests

On Wednesday, January 3, Kenyan lawyers called for nationwide demonstrations against the president's remarks.

LSK boss Eric Theuri challenged the president to produce evidence supporting his allegations to the Judicial Service Commission.

He further directed all lawyers and legal practitioners to put on yellow ribbons beginning next week to show solidarity with the justice system.