After a period of speculation regarding her whereabouts, Chief Justice Martha Koome reemerged this afternoon with a visit to the Makadara Law Courts.
This was after speculations emerged that the president of the judiciary could be outside the country at the moment.
According to Koome, the visit was aimed at assessing recent security improvements and the efficiency of services provided to the public.
Her appearance comes at a critical time as controversy surrounds an ongoing legal case involving Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua at the Milimani Law Courts.
During her visit, Koome said the Judiciary’s commitment to enhancing access to justice. In a statement posted on her X (formerly Twitter) account, she showed progress made by the Magistrates Courts in improving case clearance rates and reducing congestion in Nairobi.
“As we conclude preparations to issue the State of the Judiciary and Administration of Justice Report, we are cognizant of the milestones realized in FY 2023/24 to bring justice closer to the people. Magistrates Courts have recorded a case clearance rate of 98% with continued improvement. The Judiciary’s commitment is to decongest courts in Nairobi, especially Makadara,” said Koome.
Meanwhile, the Milimani Law Courts continue to host a heated legal battle involving Deputy President Gachagua.
His legal team is challenging Deputy Chief Justice Philomena Mwilu’s decision to appoint three High Court judges to preside over his case. Gachagua’s lawyers argue that such appointments should fall under the purview of the Chief Justice, not the Deputy Chief Justice.
However, pro-government lawyers are arguing that the Deputy Chief Justice can exercise the functions of the Chief Justice as deputy head of the Judiciary.
“The Deputy Chief Justice can appoint a tribunal to remove the President from office. What a huge responsibility and authority but what a minute, the Deputy Chief Justice cannot assign duties to judges. If the Deputy Chief Justice cannot assign duties to Judges, what then does she deputize?” posed Githu Muigai
