The International Commission of Jurists (ICJ) has sent a new message to Chief Justice David Maraga urging him to continue protecting the Judiciary against attacks from the Legislature and the Executive ahead of the October repeat Presidential election.
ICJ Executive director Samwel Mohochi encouraged the Chief Justice and the entire Judiciary to remain true to their oath of office in protecting and defending the Constitution.
The Commission promised to support and oppose any attacks on judicial officers on basis of decisions they have made.
"We pledge and will continue to offer our support as a body of jurists.
"ICJ strongly opposes and condemns and will continue to oppose and condemn any attempts to weaken the institutions of the Judiciary, threats to its independence and personal security and safety of the judicial officers," Mohochi stated.
The Executive Director took a swipe at politicians who attacked individual judges stating that the Constitution gives Court officers the authority to make decisions without being directed by other entities.
"The law says that in the exercise of judicial authority, the Judiciary shall not be subject to the control or direction of any person or authority," the director stated.
The Commission also expressed its disappointment with the National Assembly for attempting to undermine the independence of the Judiciary by introducing of amendments to election laws stating that the Legislature should respect and observe the independence of Judiciary.
"Any inappropriate or unwarranted interference with the judicial process shall be strongly defended on behalf of the people of Kenya," he stated.
CJ Maraga has been a victim of an attack from politicians allied to the Jubilee Party after he and other Supreme Court judges annulled President Kenyatta's victory in the August polls.
Last month, Nyeri Town Member of Parliament Ngunjiri Wambugu filed a petition seeking to kick out the CJ but it was later withdrawn after President Uhuru Kenyatta intervened.
