The security detail of Chief Justice Martha Koome has reportedly been withdrawn, and officers attached to the Judiciary Police Unit reduced, according to a letter from the Judiciary to Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen and Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja on Thursday.
The Judiciary criticized the move, claiming it undermines judicial independence, threatens institutional integrity, and sets a worrying precedent of external interference in constitutional offices. “This act sends a damaging message that those tasked with upholding justice and liberties are vulnerable to external pressures, eroding public trust in the Judiciary’s impartiality,” the letter stated.
The Judiciary emphasized that the CJ’s security is essential for its autonomous functioning and called for its immediate restoration. It also highlighted the need to bolster the Judiciary Police Unit to address growing security concerns.
However, the National Police Service, through Spokesperson Resila Onyango, denied the allegations, clarifying that officers were recalled for promotional training and had been replaced during their absence. The Service reaffirmed its commitment to cooperation within Kenya’s criminal justice system.
