JSC confirms receipt of complaints, petitions against judges

The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has announced that it has received five petitions and complaints against judges since the start of 2025.

In a statement on Thursday, JSC Vice Chairperson Isaac Rutto said the petitions include a petition filed by Former Law Society of Kenya (LSK) President Nelson Havi against seven Supreme Court judges.

According to JSC, the petition was filed on January 10, 2025, and received on January 13, 2025, alleging gross misconduct and misbehaviour against seven Supreme Court judges.

The seven judges include Chief Justice Martha Koome, Deputy Chief Justice Philomena Mwilu, Justice Mohammed Ibrahim, Justice Smokin Wanjala, Lady Justice Njoki Ndungu, Justice Isaac Lenaola and Justice William Ouko.

“The petition, received on January 13, 2025, makes allegations of gross misconduct and misbehaviour against the aforementioned judges,” JSC said.

Additionally, the Commission said it has received two separate petitions against High Court Judge Alfred Mabeya.

The first petition, filed by Nelson Havi on January 10, 2025, accuses Mabeya of gross misconduct and misbehaviour.

The second petition, filed by Edwin Harold Dande on December 16, 2024, and received on December 18, 2024, also alleges gross misconduct and misbehaviour.

Additionally, a petition against Lucas Leperes Naikuni, another judge, was also filed by Havi on January 10, 2025, alleging incompetence in Naikuni’s judicial duties.

The JSC said all matters will be addressed in accordance with judicial processes and the law.

It reaffirmed that it follows established procedures for handling complaints and petitions, in line with the Constitution, the Judicial Service Act, international best practices, and judicial precedents.

“The complaints filed will be dealt with in accordance with the processes and procedures developed and in compliance with the rule of law and Fair Administrative Action Act,” Rutto said.

The JSC further reported that between 2011 and 2024, it had received a total of 935 petitions against judges.

Of these, 862 have been finalised, while 12 petitions were forwarded to the President with recommendations to form a tribunal for the removal of judges. The remaining 73 petitions are at various stages of processing.

Rutto assured the public that the complaints would be processed in compliance with the rule of law and the Fair Administrative Action Act.

The Commission reiterated that it is committed to protecting the independence of the judiciary while ensuring accountability.

It also assured Kenyans that in carrying out its mandate, it would continue to act independently, without fear, favour, or prejudice.