The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has condemned the increasing wave of public attacks on judges and magistrates over bail and bond decisions granted to individuals accused of orchestrating violence during recent protests.
In a statement issued Thursday, Judiciary Chief Registrar and Secretary to the JSC Winfridah Mokaya termed the trend a threat to the rule of law and the independence of the Judiciary.
Mokaya pointed out cases of public vilification targeting judges and magistrates, particularly over bail and bond rulings made by the Nanyuki and Kahawa Law Courts.
“Such conduct misrepresents the Judiciary’s constitutional role, undermines judicial independence and corrodes public trust in the administration of justice a cornerstone of our democratic society,” said Mokaya
The Commission clarified that bail and bond decisions are grounded in legal principles and guided by the Constitution, the Criminal Procedure Code, and the Judiciary’s Bail and Bond Policy Guidelines.
“The Commission underscores that bail and bond determinations are not made arbitrarily.”
JSC affirmed that any party dissatisfied with a court decision, whether relating to bail, bond, or other matters, has the constitutional right to seek redress through established legal channels, including appeals and reviews.
“Resorting to personal attacks against Judicial Officers not only subverts due process but also imperils the sanctity and independence of the Judiciary,” stated Mokaya.
The commission further assured all judicial officers that adequate security measures remain in place to safeguard both their personal safety and the functioning of court stations.
“The Office of the Chief Registrar, in coordination with the Judiciary Police Unit, remains available to provide security arrangements necessary for the safety of judicial officers and the functioning of court stations.”
