- A senior police officer, angered by the court's decision to cancel wife's bond terms, shot Principal Magistrate Monica Kivuti, injuring her and three other officers who were trying to protect her.
- The perpetrator was subsequently shot and killed by court orderlies in the line of duty.
Image: CAROLYNE KUBWA
Law Society of Kenya has condemned the shooting incident at the Makadara Law Courts that left a magistrate injured on Thursday.
A senior police officer, angered by the court's decision to cancel wife's bond terms, shot Principal Magistrate Monica Kivuti, injuring her and three other officers who were trying to protect her.
The perpetrator was subsequently shot and killed by court orderlies in the line of duty.
"We wish to express our heartfelt sympathies to Kivuti and the other injured officers. Our thoughts and prayers are with them during this difficult time, and we hope for their swift and full recovery," LSK said in a statement.
LSK said the incident highlights the urgent need to bolster security within Kenya's courts.
The Lawyer's body said disputes often carry high emotional stakes, posing significant risks to judicial officers and advocates.
LSK emphasized the necessity of reassessing and strengthening court security protocols to address these evolving threats without hindering access to justice.
"It is imperative that we reassess and strengthen our court security protocols to address the evolving risks without compromising access to justice," LSK said
LSK announced plans to engage in a dialogue with the Chief Justice to develop comprehensive strategies aimed at safeguarding the justice system and its practitioners.
They also called on all court users and the general public to strictly adhere to security procedures, noting that lax security at court entry points and frequent disregard for established protocols are enablers of such horrific events.
LSK said the incident at the Makadara Law Courts is not isolated, but rather part of a worrying trend of threats and violence against judicial officers.
"We must recognize that court security is a collective responsibility. Cooperation from all court users is essential to ensure a safe environment for everyone," it said
LSK said Access to justice relies heavily on public confidence and certainty in the safety guaranteed by the judicial process.
The Law Society of Kenya calls on the Judiciary to cooperate with all the relevant stakeholders to implement robust security measures that protect our courts and the individuals who serve within them.
LSK also reminded Kenyans of the paramount importance of adhering to the rule of law adding that the judicial system exists to ensure justice is served impartially and fairly.
"Taking the law into one's own hands, as seen in this tragic incident, undermines the very foundation of our legal system. We must all respect and uphold the decisions of the courts, trusting that the legal process will deliver justice," it said.