The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has strongly condemned the disruption of court proceedings associated with the Law Society of Kenya's (LSK) targeted boycott of certain judges and judicial officers. The Commission highlighted that such disruptions negatively impact litigants and delay case resolutions.
In a statement released on July 31, 2026, following consultations with LSK and the Senior Counsel Bar, the JSC acknowledged the concerns raised by the legal profession regarding judicial accountability. However, it emphasized that actions interfering with court processes do not promote accountability but rather hinder justice and infringe on the constitutional right to fair and timely hearings.
Judicial Service Commission Highlights Legal Remedies
Chaired by Chief Justice Martha Koome, the JSC reiterated that complaints against judges and judicial officers should be addressed through constitutional and statutory mechanisms established under the Constitution and the Judicial Service Act. The Commission reported receiving 506 complaints this year, with 417 already processed. Since 2011, the JSC has recommended removal of 10 judges, with four having been removed.
Ongoing Reforms and Performance Transparency
The JSC outlined reforms aimed at enhancing transparency and accountability, including a policy for publishing individual performance data of judicial officers, currently under litigation. The Commission also releases Annual Court Performance Reports, noting performance scores ranging from 82.34% in Small Claims Courts to 96.30% in the Supreme Court for the 2024/2025 financial year.
Additionally, the JSC has developed the Judicial Service (Petition for Removal of a Judge) (Procedure) Regulations, 2026, pending before Parliament. These regulations were crafted in consultation with LSK and Senior Counsel Bar to clarify procedures for judicial removal petitions.
Commitment to Respectful Dialogue and Justice Integrity
Both the JSC and LSK reaffirmed their dedication to combating corruption and unethical practices within the Judiciary and legal profession. The Commission condemned intimidation and cyberbullying targeting judges, judicial officers, court staff, and advocates, calling for fact-based and respectful discussions on justice system reforms.
The JSC committed to executing its constitutional mandate impartially and stressed the necessity of uninterrupted court proceedings to guarantee Kenyans' access to justice while complaints are addressed through proper channels.
