Africa-Press – Kenya. Chief Justice Martha Koome on Friday, July 23, issued a statement following the arrest of two High Court Judges; Said Juma Chitembwe and Aggrey Muchelule on Thursday.
In the statement, Koome lamented that she had not received a formal report as the Head of Judiciary or the Chairperson of the Judicial Service Commission on their arrests.
She added that the two judges had notified her after making statements with the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI).
“The arrest of the two Judges has caused anxiety among Judges and Judicial Officers. I assure all Judges and Judicial officers that the independence of the Judiciary and their constitutional duties protected by the Constitution,” she affirmed.
“They should therefore continue discharging their duties without any fear in accordance with their oath of office,” she added.
She concluded by saying that she could not speak further on the matter since it was being adjudicated in the High Court, but pledged to make another statement after the findings of the investigations.
On Friday, July 23, DCI also issued a statement revealing that the entity engaged Justice Said Juma Chitembwe, Justice Aggrey Muchelule among other accomplices to assist with investigations.
The investigative body added that the Judges cooperated with the investigating team, recorded their statements and left to continue with their duties.
“The investigations are ongoing. As soon as they are finalized, appropriate action will be taken in consultation with all the relevant agencies and authorities as provided by the law.”
Kenya Judges and Magistrates Association (KJMA) moved to court to stop any further arrest of the two judges.
The petition prevented the two judges from taking a plea until the case is heard and determined.
