Nairobi, Jan 22 (TopNews) – Raila Odinga, leader of the Azimio la Umoja-One Kenya coalition party, has raised concerns about Chief Justice Martha Koome’s recent meeting with President William Ruto at State House in Nairobi.
Expressing his disapproval while speaking in Maweni village in Lamu West Constituency, Raila characterized the meeting as an irresponsible move by Chief Justice Koome.
“If there is meant to be a dialogue, it should take place in a neutral venue. The State House is the seat of the executive. If there is going to be a discussion on governance issues, it should be held on neutral ground. This meeting implies that the executive is compromising the judiciary, holding it hostage,” remarked Raila.
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The opposition leader voiced his fears, suggesting that such actions could plunge the country into a period reminiscent of the dictatorship era under the late President Daniel Moi.
“We have witnessed this before, during Mr. Moi’s rule. We have advised the current Chief Justice against aligning too closely with the executive. This is an unfortunate development. We hope that members of the judiciary will not be compromised, and we urge the judges to remain steadfast and carry out their duties in accordance with the law,” added Raila.
Koome’s Meeting with Ruto:
On Monday, January 22, 2024, Chief Justice Koome held a meeting with President Ruto, accompanied by National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula, Deputy Chief Justice Philomena Mwilu, Attorney General Justin Muturi, and Solicitor General Shadrack Mose.
The meeting was prompted by a request from Chief Justice Koome following persistent criticisms from Ruto, some members of the executive, and certain government-affiliated MPs.
Last week, Ruto agreed to the meeting, expressing his readiness to engage in discussions aimed at combating corruption across the three branches of government.
Addressing the issue in Tinderet, Nandi County, on Tuesday, January 16, 2024, Ruto affirmed his willingness to engage with the judiciary and the legislature on matters of corruption.
“Chief Justice Martha Koome said we need talks, and I have accepted. We have to fight corruption by all means. This is the year we are going to address corruption in Kenya. I am ready for talks between the executive, the judiciary, and the legislature,” stated Ruto.
Koome had previously criticized Ruto, who had vowed not to comply with court orders perceived to obstruct government agendas and development.
“It is regrettable that the leadership of the executive and legislature in their recent public declarations have threatened not to obey court orders. These threats and declarations are extremely serious and a monumental assault on the Constitution, the rule of law, and the very stability of the nation,” expressed Koome.
Warning against attacks on the judiciary, Koome emphasized that such actions could lead to chaos and anarchy, stressing the importance of upholding the Constitution, the rule of law, and the stability of the nation.