By Eddah Waithaka
The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) has criticized the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) for its inability to fight corruption, ensure transparency and protect the independence of the judiciary. In a statement released on Wednesday, LSK President Faith Odhiambo expressed concern over the inconsistencies in the decisions of the High Court and the Court of Appeal. She called for immediate reforms to restore public confidence in the judiciary.
“The Law Society has received numerous complaints of alleged bribery and unethical conduct by judicial officers. These vices undermine the credibility and effectiveness of the judiciary and we urge the Chief Justice to pursue and resolve all complaints against corrupt judicial officers,” said Odhiambo.
The statement emphasized that surveys and ongoing complaints from members indicated a judiciary that seemed complacent and inadequate in addressing accusations of widespread corruption.
“Surveys and complaints indicate a judiciary that has failed to act on corruption claims, and this complacency continues to erode its ability to serve the public impartially,” she said.
Further, the LSK President called out Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja of allegedly participating in the abductions and unlawful detention of Kenyans, actions that the Society asserts violate Article 239 of the Constitution.
She urged President William Ruto to provide strategic support to the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) and the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) to investigate the killings that occurred during anti-government protests in June and July.
The Society called for disciplinary proceedings against police officers involved in brutal actions during the protests, particularly those related to the controversial Finance Bill 2024. “During the recent demonstrations, LSK worked closely with Kenyans and civil society, visiting police cells, homes, mortuaries, and hospitals. We observed a total disregard for the Constitution and the rule of law,” said Odhiambo.
The LSK also called for compensation for the families of those who were reportedly killed by rogue police officers during the protests. Additionally, the Society urged a comprehensive investigation and prosecution of all individuals implicated in the alleged abuses.
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In addition, the Law Society of Kenya (LSK) has expressed concerns regarding a lack of proper consent in polio vaccination initiatives, calling for prompt actions to address this issue and ensure adherence to legal and ethical guidelines. This concern has emerged in light of parents’ apprehensions about the safety of the polio vaccines provided by the Ministry of Health, which have been linked to a range of side effects including rashes, fever, irritability, vomiting, fatigue, diarrhea, headaches, and muscle pain.
Odhiambo highlighted the necessity of effective communication with parents and guardians prior to the administration of vaccines. “Reports indicate that in some schools, children were vaccinated without the knowledge or consent of their parents or guardians. This is both legally and ethically unacceptable,” she said.This not only aligns with ethical principles but also mitigates legal risks that may arise from Adverse Events Following Immunization, “said Odhiambo.
