Chief Justice Martha Koome has accused the government, specifically the Ministry of Interior, of removing her security detail. She views this action as an attack on the Judiciary and her position as Chief Justice.
In a letter sent on Thursday to Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen and Police IG Douglas Kanja, Koome expressed her deep concern about this situation.
Koome stated that this decision not only disrespects the independence of the Judiciary but also threatens the safety of judicial officers nationwide.
“I am deeply concerned about the removal of security for the Chief Justice—this act undermines judicial independence, threatens the integrity of institutions, and jeopardizes democratic progress,” Koome remarked.
“Government bodies have a serious responsibility to serve the public with resources funded by taxpayers. This means that no institution or official should face intimidation, coercion, or interference from another government branch.”
Koome emphasized that security for her office is not a personal benefit but a necessary measure to ensure the Judiciary operates independently and safely.
She also pointed out that the Interior Ministry has cut the number of officers assigned to the Judiciary Police Unit, which was established in 2021 to protect judicial officers.
Koome expressed concern about the negative message these actions from the Ministry of Interior send to the public.
She called on the National Police Service and other relevant authorities to promptly restore her security detail without conditions.
Additionally, she urged that the Judiciary Police Unit be strengthened to address the growing need for judicial security, especially given the rise in attacks on judges and judicial officers in court.
