Seeking common ground: President Ruto open to talks with Judiciary

President William Ruto has embraced Chief Justice Martha Koome's call for dialogue on recent attacks on the Judiciary and corruption allegations against judicial officers.

At the commissioning of the Tinderet Integrated Technical and Trainers College in Nandi County on Tuesday, President Ruto expressed his willingness to lead discussions involving all three branches of government.

"I want to inform the Chief Justice that I am open to a meeting with the Judiciary, Executive, and Legislature – the leadership of our country. This includes the Executive, led by me, the Judiciary led by the Chief Justice, and the Legislature led by our Speakers," stated Ruto.

He reiterated his concern about individuals undermining the government's agenda for personal gain through the bribery of judicial officers.

President Ruto welcomed the prospect of a conversation with the Executive to address the challenges and emphasised his commitment to tackling issues affecting the nation.

"I am prepared to take the lead in that dialogue to address the challenges that are undermining our country. We must confront the forces that benefit from the status quo, and those who manipulate the system by bribing judicial officers, hiring expensive lawyers, and obstructing essential programs like universal health coverage. We will engage in that conversation," affirmed President Ruto.

In response to Chief Justice Koome's statements, the President acknowledged that he had been approached by the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) for a meeting to discuss any concerns.

"He might have received information because we have various machinery and agencies for collecting information, and we would like to engage him so that he can give us that information. We will be looking out for that dialogue; we have written, and I believe that the President is going to give us an appointment," said Koome during a press briefing.

In a statement conveyed by Chief Justice Koome, the JSC cautioned that the country was on a perilous path towards chaos and anarchy following what they termed a regrettable assault on the Judiciary by the Executive and Legislature.

The JSC expressed concern that threats to defy court orders by the Executive and the Legislature were pushing the country towards a constitutional crisis that could result in civil strife.