A Kenyan woman who claims to be one of the founding members of the Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA K) has issued a seven-day notice to Chief Justice Martha Koome demanding the correction of what she claims to be false information that was submitted about the top judge during her vetting for the current position.
In a letter dated September 3, CJ Koome, in a memorandum submitted by FIDA before the National Assembly, was accused of erroneously stating in her resume that she served as the federation’s vice chairperson from 1996 to 1998.
However, the woman refuted FIDA's claims, stating that she rightfully held the Federation’s Vice-Chair position during the said period.
According to the complainant, during her tenure, she served with dedication and honour. She also said she undertook all vice chairperson duties and responsibilities including attending council meetings.
“Our client who is a founder member of FIDA K participated in the council election of 1996 and was elected as the Vice Chair of the Council of your reputed organization,” read part of the notice addressed to CJ Koome and FIDA Kenya.
"Our client legitimately believes that according to recordings you ought to know that Chief Justice Martha Koome did not serve as Vice-chairperson of FIDA K for the period 1996-1998."
She further claimed Martha Koome could have conspired with other leaders within the federation to falsify records to indicate CJ Koome was the Vice-Chair of FIDA Kenya.
While issuing the ultimatum, the lawyer noted that should CJ Koome fail to correct the information then she would be forced to take legal action against her.
“We have mandatory instructions to institute legal proceedings in the High Court for orders and to ventilate the interest of our client,” read the demand letter.
"This at your risk as to legal costs and other incidentals without any further reference to you whatsoever."
The demand letter comes three years after Martha Koome took over office as the country's first female Chief Justice. She was later sworn into office in May 2021 after a successful vetting.
Her appointment to lead the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) followed the approval by the National Assembly.
