CJ Koome condemns Kikuyu court arson as terrorism, says attacks undermine rule of law
CJ Koome said the damage went beyond the physical structure, noting that the destruction of case files had disrupted dozens of ongoing cases.
The Judiciary has indefinitely suspended operations at the Kikuyu Law Courts after the building was set on fire during the Gen Z anniversary protests.
Chief Justice Martha Koome, who visited the site on Thursday, described the incident as an act of terrorism targeting Kenya’s justice system.
More To Read
- Protests: MSF treats 605 for gunshots, stabbings, rape and other injuries in Nairobi
- Kenya police brutality: It will take more than laws, public anger to change behaviour
- Police seek to detain two men arrested over post calling for State House's occupation
- Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen condemns June 25 memorial violence, claims protests targeted to destabilise state
- MP Babu Owino claims state withdrew his security after joining June 25 anniversary protests
- 26 county vehicles set ablaze in Nyandarua during June 25 anniversary protests
She said the damages were beyond structural loss, adding that the destruction of case files had thrown dozens of proceedings into uncertainty.
The absence of digital backups for many records has further complicated the crisis, with authorities now required to reconstruct lost files manually.
“Our worry is what will happen to the justice seekers who come here every day. Such actions not only cripple access to justice but also embolden lawlessness,” she said.
She, however, confirmed that all 23 judicial officers stationed at the Kikuyu courthouse were safe.
Hijacked by criminal elements
Koome acknowledged that while the Constitution upholds the right to peaceful protest, the demonstrations appeared to have been hijacked by criminal elements.
“I believe the majority of Kenyans who came out to demonstrate did so in good faith but were met with other elements who took advantage,” she said.
She urged the public to distinguish between peaceful protests and acts of violence, calling on both state and non-state actors to work together on sustainable solutions to the country’s challenges.
“This is a country where we are all required to find solutions. The Judiciary remains committed to delivering justice, even in the face of such destruction,” she said.
She further revealed that the Kikuyu Law Courts were not the only facility targeted.
Other courts vandalised
The newly established Dagoretti Law Courts were also vandalised, and the old Ol Kalou Law Courts building, currently used to store exhibits, was broken into and damaged.
“These attacks are an affront to the Constitution and the rule of law. They severely compromise our ability to deliver justice, especially for the vulnerable,” she said.
“To target courts is to erode the very foundation of our democratic and legal order.”
The Chief Justice noted that developing court infrastructure in Kenya takes years of planning and major investment, warning that the losses would significantly delay efforts to improve access to justice nationwide.
She assured affected communities and court users that the Judiciary is working to restore services, while also prioritising the safety of its personnel.
“I commend our Judiciary staff who continue to serve under difficult circumstances. Your commitment to the rule of law and service to the people of Kenya is invaluable,” Koome said.
The CJ also extended her condolences to the families of those who lost their lives during the protests and wished a quick recovery to the injured. She also sympathised with business owners whose premises were looted and vandalised.
“The right to assemble must be exercised peaceably and without arms. It does not extend to acts that cause harm or destroy property,” she said.
Top Stories Today
