- EAMJA President Justice Keitirima John said any grievances against judicial officers or their decisions ought to be addressed through an acceptable framework.
- This, he added, enhances the rule of law and the independence of the judiciary.
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The East African Magistrates' and Judges' Association (EAMJA) has expressed its "deep concern" over the state of the judiciary following utterances made by President William Ruto.
In a statement dated January 9, EAMJA President Justice Keitirima John Eudes said the remarks raised serious questions about the interference with the independence of the judiciary.
He stated that there was a need for the government to honour the independence of the judiciary, saying the latter has a crucial role in upholding the rule of law and promoting a democratic state.
"EAMJA wishes to remind the Kenyan government of its commitment to various regional, continental, and international instruments that underscore the importance of preserving the independence of the judiciary," the statement reads in part.
Eudes noted that any grievances against judicial officers or their decisions ought to be addressed through an acceptable framework.
This, he added, enhances the rule of law and the independence of the judiciary.
"Any concerns or disputes must be handled through established legal channels, respecting the principles of due process and the separation of power," the EAMJA President added.
He called upon Kenyans to stand with the judiciary, emphasising that am independent judiciary is crucial in safeguarding the rights and liberties of all citizens.
He said this results in a democratic and equitable foundation.
Eudes also affirmed the EAMJA's support for the judicial officers in Kenya.
"We remain urging committed to promoting and defending the principles of justice, fairness and the rule of law across the East African region," he added.
EAMJA's statement comes after remarks made by Ruto on January 2, when he said the judiciary had allegedly teamed up with cartels to stall his legacy projects.
"I want to announce here that a few people with vested interests who are beneficiaries of corruption in NHIF are now ganging up with corrupt judicial officers to stall reforms so that fake hospital claims will continue," Ruto said during burial in Nyandarua.
On Tuesday, the President said the independence of the Judiciary should not be used as an excuse to deny Kenyans development, saying it is their constitutional right.
He made it clear that the time has come for corruption in the Judiciary to be dealt with firmly and decisively.
"Nobody should tell us that the independence of the judiciary will be used to deny the people of Kenya their rights. Nobody should tell us the independence of the judiciary also means that the judiciary is holy or sacrosanct. It is still subject to the people of Kenya," Ruto said.