President is right! Senator Thang’wa defends Ruto over Judiciary remarks

Kiambu Senator Karungo wa Thang’wa has defended President William Ruto, who has come under criticism over his remarks on the Judiciary.

In a statement, Thang’wa said Kenyans should not stand by as “questionable rulings threaten the progress of critical initiatives like universal healthcare and housing programmes.”

“The President is right: judicial accountability is paramount. Every Kenyan deserves a judicial system that protects the public good,” he said.

The lawmaker added that leaders raising questions are not defying the Judiciary, but ensuring responsible, accountable judicial practices that serve the greater good.

Thang’wa added that the judiciary while possessing the power to issue orders, relies on the executive to enforce them.

“They have no independent enforcement arm. This symbiotic relationship necessitates cooperation and mutual respect, not unilateral power grabs,” he said.

He claimed the former regime openly disregarded numerous court orders, even defying the call to dissolve Parliament for failing to comply with the two-thirds gender rule.

He recalled that then Chief Justice Willy Mutunga, in 2015, called out corrupt judges and advocated for renewed vetting through the Judicial Service Commission.

"Instead of divisive cries from the rooftops, let us unite - Kenya Kwanza administration, the Opposition, the Law Society of Kenya, Patriotic Kenyans, and all concerned citizens - in demanding judicial accountability through concrete actions," he said.

He said those who defied court orders in the past, both within the current government and the former regime should be held accountable.

“This sets a critical precedent, deterring future disregard for judicial rulings,” he added.

He declared support for proposals to implement a rigorous, five-year vetting process for judges and magistrates, similar to the vetting process for elected officials.

“This empowers disgruntled citizens to voice grievances and potentially expose misconduct,” he explained.

He challenged the current administration to fast-track judicial reforms through parliamentary legislation.

Thang’wa’s remarks come barely a day after UDA secretary general Cleophas Malala castigated Azimio leader Raila Odinga after he censured Ruto over his remarks on the Judiciary.

Malala said the Azimio leader “has no moral authority to lecture the President on judicial independence.”

In a statement, Malala said Raila knows that if the Government delivers on its projects, he will have not an iota of a chance to challenge the current administration in 2027.

Raila came out guns blazing to castigate Ruto over his recent remarks and corrupt accusations against the judiciary.

Raila termed the outburst by the President as “unacceptable,” terming it a sign of an “impending absolute dictatorship” in the nation.