Dozens of lawyers have taken to the streets of Nairobi, Kenya’s capital, in response to President William Ruto’s recent threats to defy court orders. Organized by the Law Society of Kenya (LSK), the protest sees lawyers marching from the Supreme Court to the president’s office to express their concerns and defend the rule of law.
President Ruto faced widespread criticism last week after he publicly declared his intention to disregard court orders. He alleged that some unnamed judges had colluded with opposition politicians and “cartels” to obstruct his administration’s projects.
“The president of this country is not above the law. Therefore, we do not expect him to speak as if obeying court orders is a favour that he is doing to the country. It is a constitutional requirement,” stated LSK president Eric Theuri during a media briefing on Thursday.
In response to President Ruto’s statements, the LSK is contemplating the initiation of impeachment proceedings against him for what they perceive as a “violation of the constitution.” The society has assembled a legal team prepared to file a High Court petition to formally declare President Ruto in breach of constitutional principles, as reported by the privately-owned Standard newspaper.
Prominent Kenyan lawyers have joined the protest, including former Vice-President Kalonzo Musyoka and former minister Eugene Wamalwa, both presently serving as opposition politicians.
Chief Justice Martha Koome and opposition leader Raila Odinga issued warnings last week, cautioning President Ruto that defying court orders could pave the way for anarchy in the country.
By xamse
January 12, 2024
