Chief Justice David Maraga on Thursday made a surprise decision that is likely to change the manner in which the war against corruption will be fought in the Kenyan Judiciary.
Maraga announced that all corruption-related cases will be heard at a special division of the High Court and no other division will be allowed to hear any matters relating to such a case.
While announcing the establishment of the anti-corruption and economic crimes division, Maraga further directed that advocates representing clients at the division will ensure that no other matters are given priority until the matter is heard and determined.
The rule is expected to solve delays that have characterised high-profile corruption cases where advocates would fail to appear under the guise of having other pending matters in different courts.
It is also a common practice for corruption suspects to file numerous counter suits and objections at different courts in order to delay the hearing of their main case.
"It is not going to be business as usual from today," Maraga stated while presiding over the opening of the special division.
At the same time, the CJ defended the Judiciary from accusations of shielding corruption suspects adding that the courts cannot convict without evidence.
“Give us evidence and we will convictions. Without evidence, we will continue to acquit corruption suspects," Maraga stated.
He, however, warned that the Judiciary would ensure that the Kenyan public was informed of cases where the prosecutors conduct shoddy investigations or are compromised to delay hearings.
