CJ Martha Koome's security detail withdrawn

Security detail for Chief Justice Martha Koome has been withdrawn.

 Koome, in a statement, described the move as unconstitutional executive interference.

In a letter to Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen and Inspector General of Police Doughlas Kanja, Koome said the decision threatens judicial independence and public trust in state institutions.

“This action sets a dangerous precedent, where constitutional offices can be undermined through external pressure,” said Koome.

The Chief Justice also expressed concern over the downsizing of the Judiciary Police Unit, saying it weakens security for judicial officers and infrastructure nationwide.

She has called for the immediate restoration of her security detail, stressing that judicial independence is vital to safeguarding constitutional democracy.

Koome urged Kenyans and civil society to remain vigilant in protecting the Judiciary, saying, “No amount of intimidation will deter us from fulfilling our constitutional mandate.”

Koome’s security withdrawal comes months after she protested the withdrawal of Justice Lawrence Mugambi’s security by the State on September 16, 2024.

Mugambi had sentenced Acting Inspector General of Police Gilbert Masengeli to six months in prison for defying court summons.

Koome described the withdrawal as an attack on judicial independence, labelling the move as a violation of constitutional principles.

 She noted, "Article 160 of the Constitution unequivocally protects judicial independence, stating that the Judiciary is subject only to the Constitution and the law, and shall not be subject to the control or direction of any person or authority."

The Chief Justice added that any benefits or conditions of service for judges, including their security, should not be altered to their disadvantage, especially in retaliation for lawful judicial actions.

"Security for judges is an accrued benefit that cannot be withdrawn whimsically," she added.

But in a response hours later, the National Police Service (NPS) denied that its officers had been withdrawn.

Instead, the NPS spokesperson, Dr. Resila Onyango clarified, "Contrary to the media reports suggesting that NPS has withdrawn the security detail of some judicial officials, the National Police Service wishes to clarify that the officers have not been withdrawn.

Rather, she said, the officers have been recalled to attend their promotional courses.

 “They have been replaced by other officers for the period they will be on training,"  said Onyango.