This archive report was first published on 20 August 2019.
On August 20, 2019, a petition was filed before the Judicial Service Commission seeking the removal of Chief Justice David Maraga from office.
The petition, filed by Mr. Fredrick Obilo, alleges that the Chief Justice has failed to act on a matter despite his knowledge, violating the constitution, the code of judicial conduct, and principles of judicial independence.
The dispute in question dates back to 2013, when the Judiciary entered into a six-year lease agreement for Elgon Place in Upper Hill, with an annual rent of Sh603.6 million.
However, the building remained unoccupied due to concerns raised by judges about potential radiation risks.
As of 2016, the rent dispute had been pending in court for six years, with the Judiciary accused of non-payment of rent and parking fees amounting to Sh146 million.
Mr. Obilo's petition highlights the Chief Justice's failure to appoint a Bench to hear and determine the pending case, which he claims is a calculated path of abdication of duty.
