CJ Koome raises alarm over rising graft in judiciary
Chief Justice Martha Koome has raised concern over the re-emergence of corruption within the judiciary, warning that the vice threatens to erode public confidence in the justice system.
Speaking during the annual Magistrates and Kadhis Colloquium in Naivasha, Nakuru County, Koome revealed that her office had received numerous complaints from members of the public regarding unethical conduct by some judicial staff. According to the CJ, some officials have allegedly been demanding facilitation fees to offer assistance—an act she termed unacceptable and intolerable.
“Corruption is slowly sliding back into the judiciary, and this cannot be allowed,” said Koome. “We must act firmly to safeguard the integrity of the courts and restore public trust.”
Although she did not disclose names or the number of implicated staffers, Koome emphasized that the reports span from the Supreme Court down to the lower courts. She vowed that firm action will be taken against any individual found culpable.
In response to the growing concerns, the Chief Justice announced plans to establish a Court Users Integrity Committee in every court across the country. The committees will include officers from the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) and will be tasked with monitoring and addressing corruption-related issues within court operations.
The revelations come just months after the EACC submitted a report to the Chief Justice, detailing incidents where court staff had solicited bribes from citizens seeking assistance or information within judicial offices.
Koome urged judicial officers to uphold the highest ethical standards, reminding them of the vital role they play in delivering justice. “We must always remember that the judiciary is the last hope for the common citizen. Any hint of corruption damages not just individual reputations but the very fabric of our constitutional order,” she stated.
The CJ’s remarks mark a strong stance against internal corruption and set the tone for stricter accountability measures within Kenya’s judiciary
