Separation of powers and judicial independence must be protected

Judiciary Building, Nairobi. [File, Standard]

This week, President William Ruto caused a stir when he alleged collusion between corrupt individuals and judges to file cases hindering government projects aimed at improving the lives of Kenyans, such as healthcare and housing.

He implied that due to public interest, he is willing to disregard court orders from such allegedly compromised courts. These remarks have faced condemnation from various criminal justice figures, including the Chief Justice, Kenya Magistrates and Judges Association and the Law Society, who argue that his utterances are meant to interfere with the separation of powers and judicial independence, intimidate judges, and diminish trust in the Judiciary.