The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has strongly condemned what it terms as “escalating public vilification and unwarranted personal attacks” against judicial officers following controversial bail and bond decisions recently issued by the Nanyuki and Kahawa Law Courts.
In a sharply worded statement, the Commission expressed grave concern over what it described as an alarming trend of undermining judicial independence through public criticism and intimidation of magistrates and judges executing their legal mandates.
“The Commission underscores that bail and bond determinations are not made arbitrarily. These decisions are informed by the Constitution, the Criminal Procedure Code, and the Judiciary’s Bail and Bond Policy Guidelines,” the statement read in part.
While not naming specific cases, the JSC cautioned that attacking judicial officers personally rather than seeking legal redress through appeals or reviews threatens the rule of law and public trust in the justice system.
“The public is reminded that Kenya’s legal architecture provides legitimate and structured mechanisms for recourse. Resorting to personal attacks subverts due process and imperils the sanctity and independence of the Judiciary,” the statement added.
Reaffirming its support for judicial officers, the JSC commended them for upholding the law with courage and urged them to remain steadfast in delivering justice without fear or favour.
The Commission also assured judicial officers of security support through the Office of the Chief Registrar and the Judiciary Police Unit (JPU), especially amid increased threats.
“Engagement with the Judiciary must be grounded in civility, constructive dialogue, and an unyielding respect for the rule of law,” said JSC Secretary Hon. Winfridah Mokaya, CBS.
The statement comes amid growing public outrage and heated political rhetoric surrounding recent court rulings, some of which have led to protests both online and in the streets.
