This archive report was first published on 5 November 2019.
As the Kenyan government considers budget cuts, a growing number of lawyers and judges have come to the defense of Chief Justice David Maraga and the Judiciary, warning that the move could have severe consequences for the courts.
According to a judge who wished to remain anonymous, if the budget cuts are not addressed by December, the Judiciary's gains could be reversed, leaving the courts without essential supplies such as stationery and car fuel.
Senate Majority Leader Kipchumba Murkomen has publicly expressed his support for the CJ and the Judiciary, stating that they 'have teeth and should bite.' He also tweeted, 'You (Maraga) gave your tormentors an inch and they want a mile. Lead.'
City lawyer Donald B Kipkorir has also expressed his support for the CJ, stating, 'Your Lordship the Chief Justice, we are in your corner. We rather lose the Country than lose the independence of the Judiciary.'
However, not all lawyers are in support of the CJ. Nelson Havi, a lawyer, has criticized Maraga, stating that he was wrong to 'go to bed with the Executive.' Havi also predicted that Maraga will be forced to resign and be replaced by 'State apologist judges.'
Senior Counsel Ahmednasir Abdullahi has also weighed in on the issue, stating that the Judiciary is facing an onslaught from the Executive and corrupt judges, yet Maraga's concerns seem to be focused on 'Mercedes, the right to overlap in traffic jams, seating arrangements during public holidays and who should be cleared to enter State House.'
