Summary:
Kenyan lawyers, led by LSK President Eric Theuri, will stage peaceful countrywide demonstrations next week, donning yellow ribbons to support the Judiciary. They demand President Ruto retract remarks undermining the rule of law.
In response to President Ruto’s recent criticisms of the Judiciary and his threat to defy unfavorable court orders for government projects, the Law Society of Kenya (LSK) has announced countrywide peaceful demonstrations.
LSK President Eric Theuri, joined by Deputy Faith Odhiambo, emphasized the legal community’s concern over Ruto’s remarks, deeming them a threat to the rule of law.
During a press address, Theuri urged President Ruto to retract his statements, highlighting their negative impact on the justice system.
He reminded the President of the Judiciary’s impartiality in upholding his own election and cautioned against undermining its authority.
Theuri challenged President Ruto to present evidence of corruption by judicial officers to the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) instead of making baseless claims.
He expressed concern that President Ruto’s attacks on the Judiciary outside established legal processes reflect an autocratic governance style.
The legal community plans to symbolize their support for the rule of law by wearing yellow ribbons during the demonstrations.
The protests aim to emphasize the importance of an independent Judiciary and will culminate in a peaceful march with a petition to the Attorney General.
Theuri questioned the consequences for ordinary citizens seeking justice if the President refuses to obey court orders.